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1959 Map of Yakutat D-4

Name: 1959 Topographic Map of Yakutat D-4
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1963
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1963

About this map

The glacial waters of Russell Fiord and Nunatak Fiord dominate this mid-century topographic survey, illustrating the dynamic coastline within the Tongass National Forest. Located near the head of Disenchantment Bay, the map reveals a landscape defined by massive ice flows, including the Variegated Glacier and Hidden Glacier. These glaciers descend from high peaks such as Mount Alexander and Mount McCarty, terminating at the water's edge in a series of prominent headlands like Gilbert Point and Cape Enchantment.

Hydrographic data compiled from 1960 charts provides soundings throughout the deep fiord channels, marking depth variations near Osier Island and Seal Bay. The lack of roads or trails reflects the wilderness character of the region during the late 1950s, where movement was dictated by the tide and the ice. Features like Rasmusson Mountain and Mount Stamy anchor the eastern and western horizons, serving as permanent landmarks amidst the shifting glacial topography.