1952 Map of Eden Valley

About this map

Middle Fork Eel River carves a deep path through this mid-century landscape in Mendocino National Forest, where isolated cattle operations and rugged ridgelines define the terrain. The presence of Eden Valley Ranch and Elk Creek Ranch illustrates the large-scale ranching that occupied these interior valleys long after the initial settlement period. This 1952 field survey captures a transition point in the northern California backcountry, mapping the intricate drainage systems of Eden Creek and Thatcher Creek alongside early landmarks like Four Pines (Site). High-altitude features such as Mt Sanhedrin and Bald Mtn dominate the southern portion of the sheet, overlooking pockets of water like Lily Pad Lake and Brushy Lake. The map serves as a vital record for tracing old trails and ranching boundaries in the difficult terrain between Round Valley and the Forks of Eel.