2020 Map of Discovery Butte

About this map

The Marias River carves a deep path through this portion of Chouteau County, creating a stark contrast between the low-lying river valley and the elevated agricultural plains. The landscape is defined by its drainage patterns, most notably Black Coulee and O'Halon Coulee, which channel runoff toward the river through intricate draws. Two prominent landmarks, Discovery Butte and Black Butte, serve as topographic anchors in a region where long-standing section lines dictate the modern road network. Rural access is maintained through a grid of local routes like Colony Bay Rd and Kenilworth Rd, reflecting the large-scale ranching and farming operations that characterize this part of Montana. The transition from the flatlands to the sharp descents of West Fork Sixmile Coulee illustrates the erosive power of water in this semi-arid environment.