1953 Map of Devils Postpile

About this map

Devils Postpile National Monument centers this high-altitude landscape during the early 1950s, a period when the eastern Sierra began to see increased recreational development. The map details a complex network of alpine lakes and dramatic peaks like Mt Ritter and Banner Peak along the Ritter Range. Evidence of human activity and industry is scattered across the terrain, from the Minaret Mine tucked near Volcanic Ridge to the emerging winter sports hub at the Mammoth Mtn Ski Lodge. Notable for genealogists and local historians are the remote outposts like Bogg Cabin and the established camps at Agnew Meadows. The Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River serves as the primary drainage, passing landmarks such as Reds Meadow Hot Springs and Miller Crossing, illustrating the seasonal travel routes used by hikers and pack teams before modern road expansions dominated the region.