2014 Map of Council Island

About this map

The Missouri River cuts through this northern Montana landscape, marking the tri-county meeting point of Chouteau, Fergus, and Blaine counties. The river's path is defined by a series of significant mid-stream features, including the prominent Council Island, the Holmes Council Islands, and the Iron City Islands. Navigational hazards such as Holmes Rapids and McKeever Rapids indicate the river's character in this stretch, where the water has shaped a complex system of islands and sandbars. South of the river, the elevation rises toward Whiskey Ridge, a dominant upland feature flanked by Dog Cr. This terrain is dissected by deep drainage patterns like Seventy Nine Coulee, illustrating the erosive power of seasonal runoff in this high-plains environment. A sparse network of tracks, including Whiskey Ridge Rd and W 79 Trl, provides the only access through this expansive ranching and river territory.