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1956 Map of Freel Peak

Name: 1956 Topographic Map of Freel Peak
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1961
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1961

About this map

Lake Tahoe anchors this mid-century survey of the high Sierras and the Carson Valley, documenting a period of rapid recreational expansion. The South Shore is shown transitioning into a significant hub, with Stateline, Bijou Park, and Al Tahoe lining the waterfront while Heavenly Valley Ski Lodge marks the early footprint of the alpine sports industry. The map captures the complex administrative landscape of the era, including the Nevada California Boundary Line and the historic Von Schmidt Line, which delineate the high-altitude forests of the Toiyabe National Forest and Eldorado National Forest.

In the lowlands to the east, the agricultural patterns of the Carson Valley are visible through networks like the Snowshoe Thompson Ditch No 1. Local history is preserved in labels for the Sierra House (Site) and the Happy Homestead Cemetery, while the presence of Walleys Hot Springs and Sorensens reflects the region's enduring appeal for travelers. From the granite heights of Freel Peak to the meadows of Woodfords, the map detail provides a clear view of the mountain passes and valley settlements before late-century development.