2017 Map of Cascade Colony

About this map

Cascade Colony serves as a central point of habitation in this region of Cascade County, where the plains of Montana meet a complex network of geological formations. The landscape is defined by its dramatic relief, punctuated by massive elevations such as Square Butte and Shaw Butte. These landforms stand over a territory carved by numerous drainages, including Little Muddy Cr, Saint Johns Cr, and Crown Butte Cr. The distribution of water is further managed through engineering features like the Fort Shaw Canal and the Russell Lateral in the northern reaches of the quadrangle. A series of deep coulees, named for local figures or natural features such as Fjeld Coulee, Hanson Coulee, and Cottonwood Coulee, illustrate the erosion patterns across the high plains. The map also traces a network of rural roads including Birdtail Creek Rd and Simms Cascade Rd, connecting the scattered ranches and settlements.