2014 Map of Half Moon Canyon

About this map

The Big Snowy Mountains dominate this central Montana landscape, reaching their apex at high-elevation landmarks like Greathouse Peak and Old Baldy. This 2014 survey captures the transition from the plateau-like Bowmans Bench in the north to the dramatic elevation gains within the Lewis & Clark National Forest. The map documents a complex drainage system where the Middle Fork Big Spring Cr and Swimming Woman Cr have carved deep incisions through the limestone, creating features like Stovepipe Canyon and North Horsethief Canyon. A network of ranch roads and trails, including Half Moon Ranch Rd and the Wapiti Ridge Trl, provides the only access through this mountain pass area. The presence of Half Moon Pass and Knife Blade Ridge illustrates the challenging geography that has historically isolated this high-country terrain on the border of Fergus and Golden Valley counties.