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1952 Map of Lake Whatcom

Name: 1952 Topographic Map of Lake Whatcom
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1974
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1974

About this map

Lake Whatcom dominates this landscape, its deep waters reaching south toward the border between Whatcom and Skagit counties. The shoreline reflects a transition from early industrial and transportation networks to mid-century recreation, evidenced by the Northern Pacific railroad tracks and the nearby Lake Whatcom Landing Strip near Dutch Harbor. Small settlements like Blue Canyon and Park anchor the southeastern shore, while the State Trout Hatchery points to the early management of the region's aquatic resources.

The topography rises sharply away from the lake towards Anderson Mountain, with numerous drainages such as Smith Creek and Brannian Creek feeding the basin. Revisions from 1972 illustrate the evolution of local infrastructure, including Lake Whatcom Blvd and the Wickersham Truck Trail. From the secluded Reveille Island to the smaller basins of Cain Lake and Reed Lake, the map captures a detailed view of the Pacific Northwest's wooded foothills during a period of expanding access and development.