2020 Map of Ellis Canyon

About this map

The Helena National Forest dominates this Meagher County landscape, where the Smith River cuts through the northeast corner. This section of the Big Belt Mountains is defined by sharp topographic reliefs and a network of drainages including Ellis Canyon and its eastern and western forks. The area exhibits a classic mountain-ranching geography, evidenced by features such as Haystack Bar and Dry Range, along with critical water sources like Haystack Spring and Weaning Corral Spring. Human activity is sparse, marked primarily by the winding route of Lingshire Rd and Co RD 360, which follow natural contours to provide access to the high country. In the southern portion of the quadrangle, Dry Beaver Cr and the Ashford Tank reflect the seasonal nature of water management in this high-elevation environment, while Buffalo Canyon and Den Gulch carve into the heavily forested slopes.