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1955 Map of Pacheco Pass

Name: 1955 Topographic Map of Pacheco Pass
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1957
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1957

About this map

The Diablo Range dominates this mid-1950s survey, defined by its complex network of seasonal springs, lakes, and high peaks along the boundary of Santa Clara and Merced counties. The Pacheco Pass Highway serves as the primary artery through the hills, passing through the actual Pacheco Pass before descending toward the San Luis Flat. This era captures the landscape before major water management projects altered the California interior, showing natural drainages like San Luis Creek and Cottonwood Creek in their original courses.

Local landmarks with unique nomenclature are scattered throughout the hills, from the curiously named Pigs Bath Tub and Bear Hide Lake to established locations like Harris Ranch. The terrain is characterized by numerous small bodies of water such as Dinosaur Lake, Wolf Lake, and Diamond Lake, which likely served as vital watering holes for ranching operations. Numerous trails and jeep tracks connect remote points like Hagerman Peak and Spikes Peak, reflecting a rugged environment where movement was still largely dictated by the natural contours of the gulches and flats.