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1960 Map of Gunflint Lake

Name: 1960 Topographic Map of Gunflint Lake
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1965
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1965

About this map

The international boundary between Canada and the United States defines the northern edge of this wilderness landscape, bisecting the expansive waters of Gunflint Lake and Magnetic Lake. Captured from 1958 aerial photography and field checked in 1959-60, the map illustrates a complex network of glacial lakes and waterways within the Superior National Forest and Minnesota State Forest. The rugged terrain of the Iron Range is evidenced by steep contour lines surrounding water bodies like Loon Lake and Tucker Lake.

Evidence of early industrial and recreational access is visible through the Old Railroad Grade running north of the international line and the iconic Gunflint Trail winding through the center. Small portages and trails connect isolated waters such as Banadad Lake and Finn Lake, while named features like Trip Lake and Extortion Lake reflect the character of this borderland region before modern development further altered the remote interior of Cook County.