1969 Map of Five Ponds

About this map

The Oswegatchie River dominates this interior portion of the Adirondack State Park, winding through a landscape defined by complex water systems and high peaks. In the late 1960s, this area of the State Forest Preserve remained largely primitive, accessible by trails and water routes rather than roads. The map documents the intricate hydrography of the region, from the broad Dead Creek Flow in the northeast to the clustered namesake bodies of Big Five Pond and Little Five Pond. Along the river's course, landmarks like Griffin Rapids and High Falls mark the descent of the terrain. The presence of backcountry infrastructure is noted through Janacks Landing Shelter and the Griffin Shelter, reflecting the area's established role for wilderness recreation. Higher elevations such as Partlow Mtn and Greenfield Mtn frame the river valleys, while the open expanse of The Plains provides a break in the forested canopy.