1963 Map of Obsidian

About this map

Sawtooth Valley serves as the central corridor of this 1963 survey, where the Salmon River winds through high mountain terrain between the Sawtooth National Forest and Challis National Forest. The settlement of Obsidian and the nearby Idaho Rocky Mtn Ranch mark the human footprint in an area otherwise defined by timber and drainage networks like Fourth of July Creek and Fisher Creek. The map documents early 1960s forest infrastructure, including the Sawtooth Valley Ranger Station and Bull Moose Campground. To the south, Yellow Belly Lake sits at the edge of the glacial landscape, while the presence of a Gravel Pit and several Jeep Trails indicates the active land use and resource management of the era. The wide expanse of Decker Flat contrasts with the surrounding peaks, illustrating the distinct topography of Custer County.