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1949 Map of Thousand Springs

Name: 1949 Topographic Map of Thousand Springs
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1965
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1965

About this map

Snake River canyon walls define the geography of this mid-century Idaho landscape, where high desert plateaus drop sharply into a corridor of springs and falls. The map documents a unique hydro-economy where water emerges directly from the canyon walls at Thousand Springs and Banbury Springs. This abundant flow supported specialized recreation and industry, evidenced by the Banbury Natatorium, Hot Water Wells, and the Snake River Fish Hatchery (Private).

South of the river, the Melon Valley illustrates the region's reliance on complex irrigation systems, with numerous ditches and a Pipe Line traversing the flats. Local community life is anchored by the Lucerne School, while the river itself features dramatic natural landmarks like Devils Washbowl Falls and the Kanaka Rapids. This survey captures the area just as the Clear Lakes Golf Course began to shape the recreational character of the canyon floor.