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2014 Map of Bird Rapids

Name: 2014 Topographic Map of Bird Rapids
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2014
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2014

About this map

The Missouri River cuts through the southern portion of this landscape, marking the natural boundary between Blaine Co and Fergus Co. This river segment is defined by significant navigational landmarks including the Bird Rapids and Magpie Rapids, which dictate the movement of water through the complex breaks of central Montana. The terrain is characterized by a series of prominent high points and divides, most notably Black Butte and its adjacent Black Butte North Airport.

A network of drainage coulees, such as Lion Coulee, N Fork Lion Coulee, and Bullwhacker Coulee, carve the surrounding uplands into distinct sections. Named ridges provide a skeletal structure to the topography, with Pendell Ridge, Lone Tree Ridge, Barnard Ridge, and Ervin Ridge stretching across the quadrangle. Ervine Ridge Rd serves as the primary upland artery, tracing the high ground above the river valley. This survey reflects the modern configuration of the Missouri River Breaks, focusing on the intersection of water navigation and isolated rangeland infrastructure.