2017 Map of Essex

About this map

The settlement of Essex serves as a central gateway between the protected wilderness of Glacier National Park to the north and Flathead National Forest to the south. This alpine landscape is defined by the high-elevation corridors of John F Stevens Canyon and Theodore Roosevelt Pass, which have historically provided the primary passage through this section of the Rocky Mountains. The Middle Fork Flathead River carves a deep valley that dictates the path of local infrastructure, including Patti's Rd and the Fielding Branch Rd. Surrounding the river valley, several prominent peaks dominate the terrain, including Scalplock Mtn, Running Rabbit Mtn, and Snowslip Mtn. The presence of Fielding and various creek drainages like Ole Creek and Essex Creek illustrate how water and transport routes shaped human activity in this mountain pass.