1953 Map of Vail Lake

About this map

Vail Lake dominates the northwest corner of this 1953 survey, which traces the rugged transition from the Butterfield Valley into the high peaks of the Cleveland National Forest. The landscape is a network of canyons and high ridges, including Wild Horse Peak and Eagle Crag, punctuated by isolated sites of human activity. Settlers and ranchers left their mark at locations like the Crosley Homestead and the small outpost of Radec. Evidence of early community infrastructure is visible through the Cottonwood School and a Cem near the eastern valley. The southern portion of the map is defined by the Agua Tibia Wilderness, where the Wilderness Trail crosses the boundary of the Pala Indian Reservation, reflecting the region's managed forests and native lands.