1975 Map of Skykomish River

About this map

The Skykomish River and Snoqualmie River valleys anchor this mid-1970s survey, revealing a landscape defined by industrial transport and alpine wilderness. Major transportation arteries including the Burlington Northern and the Chicago Milwaukee St Paul and Pacific railroads parallel the riverbanks, connecting established settlements like Monroe, Sultan, and Gold Bar to the high mountain passes. The map documents significant engineering feats like the Cascade Tunnel and its predecessor, the Old Cascade Tunnel, while also marking local institutions such as State Reformatory Farm No 2 near the Cherry Valley. In the eastern high country, the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail winds through the Glacier Peak Wilderness, bridging the boundaries of the Mt Baker National Forest, Snoqualmie National Forest, and Wenatchee National Forest. This era shows the region balanced between its timber and rail heritage and its growing role as a gateway to the Cascades, with landmark peaks like Mount Si and Baring Mountain framing the river basins.