1981 Map of Wilson Lake

About this map

The Superior National Forest dominates this northern landscape, which is defined by a complex network of glacial lakes and historical transport corridors. The map records the remnants of the region's logging and mining history, notably an Old RR Grade and Old Railroad Grade that cross the southern portion of the quadrangle. These routes suggest an era of industrial extraction that predates the modern recreational focus of the forest. Large water bodies like Silver Island Lake, Wilson Lake, and Elbow Lake are connected by smaller streams such as Windy Cr and the Cross River. Small infrastructure details, including several Gravel Pit locations and Public Access points at Little Wilson Lake and Harriet Lake, reflect the transition of this area into a managed wilderness and resource zone as the twentieth century progressed.