1953 Map of Merced Peak

About this map

Merced River headwaters dominate this high-altitude survey of the southern Sierra Nevada, where the convergence of Yosemite National Park, Sierra National Forest, and Inyo National Forest creates a complex wilderness interface. The topography is defined by the sharp serrations of the Cathedral Range and the Clark Range, featuring prominent landmarks like Merced Peak and the Lyell Glacier. Human presence is marked by a network of backcountry infrastructure, including the Merced Lake Ranger Sta and isolated shelters such as Knoblock Cabin. While much of the area is dedicated to preservation and recreation at sites like High Sierra Campground, the presence of the Strawberry Tungsten Mine near the southeastern boundary indicates the era's lingering industrial interests within these remote reaches.