1954 Map of Iditarod A-5

About this map

Iditarod River meanders through the northwest corner of this interior Alaskan landscape, which reflects a mid-century period of mineral exploration and remote transport. The terrain is defined by complex drainage systems and ridges, notably around DeCourcy Mountain and Haystack Butte. Industrial activity is evident along Donlin Creek, where a Placer Mine and cabins are located near a specialized Landing Strip. Further west, the De Courcy Mtn Mine and its associated Landing Area mark another hub of activity, connected to the wider territory by a Tractor Trail. Evidence of earlier ventures appears in the form of Ruins and scattered cabin sites. The abundance of named gulches, such as Peary Gulch, Quartz Gulch, and Snow Gulch, suggests a landscape heavily scrutinized for its geological potential during this era of post-war mapping.