1954 Map of Great Falls

The surrounding landscape reveals a contrast between the irrigated agricultural plains, noted by the Greenfield Main Canal, and the high terrain of the Highwood Mountains. Small settlements such as Fort Benton, Sand Coulee, and Black Eagle are connected by a dense network of the Great Northern and Chicago Milwaukee St Paul and Pacific railroads. Conservation areas like the Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge and the Highwood Game Preserve reflect the early management of the region's wilderness and water resources.