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2024 Map of Bighorn

Name: 2024 Topographic Map of Bighorn
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2024
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2024

About this map

The confluence of the Bighorn River and the Yellowstone River anchors this central Montana landscape, where the movement of water has long dictated the patterns of human settlement and agriculture. The map illustrates a complex network of irrigation infrastructure essential to the region's ranching history, including the Bighorn-Tullock Ditch, Rancher Ditch, and Victory Ditch. These systems parallel the riverbanks, supporting fertile areas like Pease Bottom and Big Ox Bottom.

Tracing the southern bank of the Yellowstone, the modern transport corridor follows Old Hwy 10 and the Custer Frontage Rd through the settlement of Bighorn. The surrounding terrain is marked by distinctive geological features such as Guys Bluffs and the deeply etched drainage of Petes Coulee. This survey provides a contemporary look at the intersection of Treasure Co and Yellowstone Co, documenting the enduring relationship between the river valleys and the upland coulees.