1955 Map of Mount Michelson C-4

About this map

The Canning River defines the western edge of this subarctic landscape, situated within the William O Douglas Arctic National Wildlife Range. This 1955 photogrammetric survey reveals a terrain dominated by the massive east-west ridges of the Sadlerochit Mountains and the Shublik Mountains, separated by the broad expanse of Ignek Valley. The presence of a Drill Hole along the riverbank north of Red Hill points to early resource exploration efforts on the North Slope during the mid-20th century. High peaks like Mount Copleston anchor the southern reaches of the map, while numerous drainages including Nanook Creek, Ignek Creek, and Hue Creek carve through the mountain passes. The map reflects a period before intensive infrastructure, showing a land navigated by its waterways and natural landmarks such as the Tamayariak River.