1959 Map of Polaris

About this map

Beaverhead National Forest defines this high-altitude landscape in the late 1950s, where the economy of the Pioneer Mountains balanced resource extraction with early recreational development. The presence of the Rainy Mountain Ski Area and Crystal Park signals the transition toward seasonal tourism, while numerous mining operations such as the Elkhorn Mine and Silver King Mine speak to the region's enduring subterranean interests. Small-scale human occupancy is concentrated around the settlement of Polaris and its associated Polaris Sch, alongside more remote outposts like the Old Pinkerton Homestead and Circle-S Ranch. The map traces a network of rugged Jeep Trails and the historic Old Jim Creek Trail through the drainages of Grasshopper Creek and Harrison Creek, providing a detailed look at the infrastructure required for prospecting and ranching in this high-country environment.