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1954 Map of Sandia Crest

Name: 1954 Topographic Map of Sandia Crest
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1955
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1955

About this map

Sandia Crest towers over this mid-century landscape, marking a period when these peaks were becoming established for both recreation and modern communication. The 1954 field check reveals the early infrastructure of the La Madera Ski Area and the Tree Spring Winter Sports Area, alongside technical developments like the Radio and TV Towers at the summit. Historically significant land grants, including the Sandia Pueblo Grant and Elena Gallegos Grant, define the regional boundaries.

Evidence of early mountain habitation and resource use is visible at the La Luz Mine and the Ellis Ranch, while the Jaral Ranger Sta and various backcountry shelters like Kiwanis Cabin and Capulin Cabin suggest a managed wilderness. The eastern slopes are etched with many water sources, from Sulphur Spring to Osha Spring, which historically supported local homesteads and small-scale operations near Cañoncito and its local Cañoncito Cemetery.