1955 Map of Island Park

About this map

Dinosaur National Monument encompasses the southern half of this map, where the Green River carves through the high desert. In the mid-1950s, the landscape was a blend of federally protected wilderness and isolated ranching outposts like Ruple Ranch. The river loops around prominent features such as Ford Island and Tree Island, creating lush riparian zones like Upper Meadow and Lower Meadow that contrast sharply with the surrounding arid uplands. To the north, Diamond Mountain rises above the basin, defined by deep incisions like Diamond Gulch and the aptly named Graveyard Ridge. This map illustrates the vital importance of water in the Uintah Basin, tracking every reliable source from Boone Spr to McKee Spr. The terrain is marked by ancient drainage patterns including Stone Bridge Draw and Six Mile Rough Draw, providing a detailed look at the geography of Island Park and Rainbow Park.