1951 Map of Leek Spring Hill

About this map

Eldorado National Forest defines this Sierra Nevada landscape, where the high ridges of the divide separate the watersheds of the Silver Fork American River and the Cosumnes River. Mapping based on 1948 photography and 1951 fieldwork reveals a terrain transition marked by steep canyons and named ridges like Mill Creek Ridge and Alder Ridge. Small settlements and named mountain camps such as Morrison, Pilliken, and Meiss are scattered along the primitive road network, illustrating the early 1950s footprint of forest management and high-country habitation. Significant natural landmarks include Iron Mtn, the prominent Leek Spring Hill, and isolated water sources like Buckskin Joe Spring and Olyer Spring. The network of watercourses, including North Fork, Middle Fork, and South Fork, highlights the complex drainage patterns feeding the region's river systems during this era of post-war topographical study.