1964 Map of Prairie

About this map

Prairie and the surrounding high-altitude cattle country of Elmore County are documented here during the mid-1960s, showing a landscape defined by the Boise National Forest and the upper drainages of Smith Creek. The area's aviation and recreation infrastructure is evident through the Smith Prairie Airstrip and the Tipton Flat Campground, which serve as focal points for back-country access. Water management for this arid terrain is highlighted by the Pierce Ditch, a notable engineering feature that moves water through the southern flats. A network of pack trails and jeep trails connects remote landmarks like Baker and Tipton Flat, illustrating how the region was navigated before more modern road improvements. The topography is dominated by massive features such as Rattlesnake Mountain and Lava Mountain, with numerous drainages like Bear Gulch and Lava Creek carving through the mountain slopes.