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1934 Map of Mt. Wilson

Name: 1934 Topographic Map of Mt. Wilson
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1934
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1934

About this map

Mt Wilson stands as the focal point of this 1930s survey, dominated by the prominent Observatory that overlooks the complex canyon systems of the San Gabriel National Forest. The landscape is a network of steep drainages and fire prevention infrastructure, characterized by several Firebreak lines cut across the ridges. This era of mountain recreation is well-represented by a cluster of established camps and lodges tucked into the canyons, including Opids Camp and Valley Forge Lodge along the upper reaches of the West Fork San Gabriel River.

To the south and east, the map reveals the intricate trails and seasonal retreats within Big Santa Anita Creek, where Sturtevants Camp, Hoegees Camp, and Fern Lodge provided refuge for early hikers and campers. The topographic detail captures the dramatic relief between peaks like San Gabriel Peak and Mt Harvard, illustrating the isolation of these sites before modern infrastructure further altered the region.