Old Map of USA National Parks, 1967: Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Crater Lake

Introducing "USA - Selected National Parks," a captivating infographic map originally published in 1967 by the Polish Army Topography Service. This remarkable piece serves not just as a navigational tool but as a window into the grandeur of America's natural heritage. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, it presents an in-depth exploration of four iconic national parks: Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Crater Lake, and Yosemite. Each park's map is a testament to the unique landscapes and geological features that have fascinated visitors for generations, rendered with precision and clarity at a scale of 1:250,000.

A Fusion of Art and Cartography

The map stands out as a fusion of detailed political and physical mapping, where artistry meets science. The intricate details capture the essence of each park, from the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone to the awe-inspiring depths of the Grand Canyon. The careful delineation of terrains, water bodies, and elevation contours offers a comprehensive view, making it an invaluable resource for enthusiasts of geography and natural history alike.

A Glimpse into the Past

Published during a time when conservation efforts were gaining momentum, "USA - Selected National Parks" reflects a period of growing appreciation for the United States' natural landscapes. Its creation by the Polish Army Topography Service adds a layer of historical significance, representing a cross-cultural tribute to the universal value of nature's marvels. This map is not merely a navigational aid but a historical artifact that captures the spirit of exploration and conservation of the 1960s.

Exploring Four American Treasures

Each section of the map dedicated to Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Crater Lake, and Yosemite offers a deep dive into the majesty of these landscapes. Yellowstone's map, for instance, highlights its vast network of geothermal features, while the Grand Canyon's portrayal emphasizes its layered rock formations. Crater Lake's deep blue waters are meticulously outlined, showcasing its volcanic origins, whereas Yosemite's map highlights its towering cliffs and waterfalls. These maps serve as a guide to the heart of America's wilderness, inviting exploration and admiration.

A Collector's Dream

"USA - Selected National Parks" is more than a map; it's a collector's piece, a slice of history, and an artistic homage to nature's splendor. Its comprehensive coverage and artistic rendering make it an exceptional item for collectors, historians, and nature lovers alike. Whether framed and displayed or used as a reference for educational purposes, this map is a timeless tribute to some of the most magnificent landscapes on Earth. Perfect for those who cherish the beauty of the natural world and the art of cartography, this map is a luxury item that embodies the spirit of adventure and discovery.

Some of the locations included on the map include:

• Yellowstone National Park:
  • Old Faithful Geyser: The most famous geyser in the park, known for its predictable eruptions.
  • Grand Prismatic Spring: The largest hot spring in the United States, notable for its striking colors.
  • Yellowstone Grand Canyon: A stunning canyon with two major waterfalls, offering breathtaking views.
  • Lamar Valley: Renowned for its wildlife viewing opportunities, including bison, wolves, and elk.
• Grand Canyon National Park:
  • Grand Canyon Village: The starting point for many visitors, with access to the South Rim's spectacular views.
  • Havasu Falls: A breathtakingly beautiful waterfall known for its vivid blue-green waters.
  • Bright Angel Trail: A popular hiking trail offering incredible views of the canyon's depths.
  • North Rim: Offers a quieter, more secluded experience with equally stunning views.
• Crater Lake National Park:
  • Crater Lake: The deepest lake in the United States, known for its deep blue color and water clarity.
  • Wizard Island: A cinder cone volcano located within Crater Lake, accessible by boat in the summer.
  • Rim Drive: A scenic drive around the caldera, offering various viewpoints of the lake and landscape.
  • Phantom Ship: A natural rock formation resembling a ghost ship, visible from various overlooks around the lake.
• Yosemite National Park:
  • Yosemite Valley: The iconic heart of the park, home to famous landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome.
  • Yosemite Falls: One of the tallest waterfalls in North America, visible from many points in the valley.
  • Glacier Point: Offers panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra.
  • Mariposa Grove: Home to hundreds of ancient giant sequoias, including the Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree.

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 50in (125cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

The model in the listing images is holding the 18x24in (45x60cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. On maps up to 36 inches (91cm) the frame is 1.5-3cm (0.6in to 1in) wide. I use thicker frames on larger maps - usually between 35 and 60mm (1.4in to 2.4in).

In all cases I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

A few different frame colours are available for free (black, brown, white, oak and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I have specialist printing and framing facilities in 17 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

If you select Express Delivery at checkout your order we will prioritise your order and send it out by 1-day courier (Fedex, DHL, UPS, Parcelforce).

We can sometimes do next-day delivery if you order before 10am. But usually it's best to contact me first before you order.

Read my full delivery and local production guide

My maps are extremely high quality reproductions of original maps.

I source original, extremely rare maps from libraries, auction houses and private collections around the world, restore them at my London workshop, and then use specialist giclée inks and printers to create beautiful maps that look even better than the original.

My maps are printed on acid-free archival matte (not glossy) paper that feels very high quality and almost like card. In technical terms the paper weight/thickness is 10mil/200gsm. It's perfect for framing.

I print with Epson ultrachrome giclée UV fade resistant pigment inks - some of the best inks you can find.

I can also make maps on canvas, cotton rag and other exotic materials.

Learn more about how the Unique Maps Co. sources and restores old maps

Map personalisation

If you're looking for the perfect anniversary or housewarming gift, I can personalise your map to make it truly unique. For example, I can add a short message, or highlight an important location, or add your family's coat of arms.

The options are almost infinite. Please see my map personalisation page for some wonderful examples of what's possible.

To order a personalised map, select "personalise your map" before adding it to your basket.

Get in touch if you're looking for more complex customisations and personalisations.

If you are not happy with your unique map for any reason, contact me for a no-quibble refund.

I am very confident you will like your old map. I have been doing this since 1984. I'm a 5-star Etsy seller. I have sold tens of thousands of maps and have over 1,500 real 5-star reviews.

I use a unique process to restore my maps that is massively time consuming and labour intensive. Hunting down the original maps can take months. I use state of the art and eye-wateringly expensive technology to scan and restore the maps. As a result, I guarantee my maps are a cut above the rest - that's why I can offer a no-quibble refund.

Almost all of my maps look amazing at large sizes (200cm, 6.5ft+) and I can frame and deliver them to you as well, via special oversized courier. Contact me to discuss your specific needs.