1956 Map of Kern Peak

About this map

The Kern River carves a deep north-south canyon through this high-altitude landscape of the High Sierra, separating the Chagoopa Plateau from the eastern peaks. During this mid-century period, the area served as a critical corridor for backcountry management and recreation, evidenced by the Kern Canyon Ranger Sta and the remote Tunnel Air Camp complete with its own Landing Strip. The map illustrates a transitional wilderness where geological landmarks like Window Cliffs and the volcanic features of Malpais meet a network of high meadows, including Sky Parlor Meadow and Big Whitney Meadow. This survey provides a distinct look at the infrastructure of the Sequoia National Park interior before modern environmental regulations shifted the management of such remote backcountry outposts and landing fields.