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1956 Map of Wilcox Ridge

Name: 1956 Topographic Map of Wilcox Ridge
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1972
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1972

About this map

Wilcox Ridge and the surrounding Diablo Range backcountry define this topographic study, updated in the early 1970s from 1950s surveys. The landscape is characterized by a dense network of seasonal drainages and rugged canyons, including Gooseberry Canyon, Sheep Canyon, and Beartrap Canyon. Human presence is sparse, centered on isolated holdings like Isom Ranch, which features its own Landing Strip, and Miller Ranch to the south.

Evidence of historical activity is found at a Shaft located along North Fork Orestimba Creek and a Lookout (Aband) perched atop Mikes Peak. The terrain is navigated primarily by Jeep Trails that wind through the peaks, connecting the Orestimba Creek watershed with the Orestimba Narrows. For genealogists and local historians, these family-named landmarks and the network of stock ponds and reservoirs like those at Days Pass provide a clear view of mid-century land use in this part of Stanislaus County.