2023 Map of Circular Butte

About this map

Circular Butte dominates the northeastern landscape of this high desert region along the border of Butte and Jefferson counties. This modern topographic survey illustrates a complex hydrologic network where surface water often disappears into the basalt-rich earth, most notably at the Birch Creek Sinks. The northern reaches of the map show Birch Creek transitioning into these terminal sinks, while the western section is marked by the Dry Channel Big Lost River, reflecting the seasonal and subterranean nature of water in the Snake River Plain.