1955 Map of Idaho Falls

About this map

Big Southern Butte and a series of volcanic landmarks dominate the high desert floor between the Snake River and the mountain ranges to the west. This mid-century survey documents the expansive National Reactor Testing Station during a period of significant federal activity, juxtaposed against the preserved volcanic formations of Craters of the Moon National Monument. The settlement pattern follows the life-giving waters of the Big Lost River and the eastern agricultural corridor near Blackfoot and Idaho Falls. Along the western edge, the White Knob Mountains and Pioneer Mountains are marked by isolated operations like the Star Hope Mine and Copper Basin Mine. The rail infrastructure of the Union Pacific serves the valley, connecting small communities like Atomic City, Taber, and Moreland to the larger irrigation systems of the American Falls Reservoir.