2015 Map of Slate Mountain

About this map

Eldorado National Forest encompasses much of this landscape, where the deeply incised canyons of the South Fork American River and its tributaries define the regional layout. The map documents several small mountain settlements, including Cedar Grove and Fairbanks, alongside locations with deep timber and mining history such as Pino Grande and Old Pino. The terrain is characterized by sharp relief, featuring prominent heights like Slate Mountain and Sand Mtn, as well as significant water management features including Finnon Reservoir and the Slab Cr Reservoir. The presence of Swansboro Country Airport reflects the modernization of transportation in this pocket of the Sierra Nevada foothills. Local road networks like Mosquito Rd and Fruit Ridge Rd provide access to residential clusters at Iowa Hill and Soapweed, showing how contemporary land use follows the contours of the historic gold-country geography.