1963 Map of Inch Mountain

About this map

The Kootenai River carves a deep valley through the Kootenai National Forest in this 1963 survey of northwestern Montana. This landscape is defined by the critical transport corridor of the Great Northern railway, which skirts the eastern bank of the river as it winds past Cedar Island and the rock formations of Stonehill. The map captures a moment before modern landscape modifications, showing the intricate drainage patterns of tributaries like Big Creek, McGuire Creek, and the various forks of Parsnip Creek. High above the river valley, the Vortex Lookout Tower stands as a sentinel near Inch Mountain, connected to the lower elevations by a primitive Pack Trail. The presence of these lookout points and wilderness trails reflects the mid-century forest management and fire suppression infrastructure in this corner of Lincoln County.