1985 Map of Jim Creek

About this map

The Cayuse Hills define the western portion of this Montana landscape, where the high-plains terrain is etched by an intricate network of seasonal and perennial drainage systems. At the time of this mid-1980s field check, the area served as a remote intersection for three counties: Wheatland, Sweet Grass, and Golden Valley. The drainage patterns of Jim Creek, Potato Creek, and Antelope Creek illustrate the natural runoff routes from the higher elevations of the hills toward the lower valley basins. This provisional survey captures the region’s topography in high detail, showing the deep contouring of the coulees and draws that characterize this part of the state. Small landmarks like a lone Spring or the convergence of Fish Creek provide specific points of reference for those studying the hydrology and land use of this sparsely populated ranching and grazing territory during the late twentieth century.