1950 Map of Taylor Mountains

About this map

The remote interior of Southwest Alaska during the mid-century is defined here by the headwaters of several major river systems, including the Nushagak River and Holitna River. This 1950 survey, compiled from early 1940s photography and ground surveys, shows a landscape largely shaped by water and high peaks. Evidence of human presence is sparse but significant, centered on the settlement of Kashegelok and a long Winter Trail traversing the northwest corner near the Kuskokwim Mountains. The map provides a remarkable view of the complex interconnected Tikchik Lakes system in the southwest, including Chikuminuk Lake and Nuyakuk Lake. Tracing these watersheds reveals the traditional travel corridors that existed before modern aviation and infrastructure became dominant in the region, connecting remote outposts like a lone Cabin in the Nushagak Hills to the broader drainage basins.