1956 Map of Lookout Ridge

About this map

Naval Petroleum Reserve No 4 dominates this mid-century portrait of the Arctic slope, a vast expanse of unpopulated terrain defined by complex drainage systems and high ridges. The landscape is structured by prominent geological features such as Shaningarok Ridge and Lookout Ridge, which serve as the primary landmarks in an area nearly devoid of permanent settlements. A series of rivers including the Meade River, Awuna River, and Colville River carve through the tundra, following ancient courses that define the regional hydrology. A singular Tractor Trail provides a rare thread of human transit across the northern reaches, winding through the plains toward the Avalik River. Numerous vertical angle bench marks (VABM), including VABM 1360 Birthday and VABM 1743 Roost, indicate the extensive aerial photogrammetric surveying efforts required to map this interior region between Birthday Pass and the distant northern horizons.