1993 Map of McKenzie Butte

About this map

South Cave Hills rise prominently in the northern reaches of this landscape, deeply integrated with the Custer National Forest. The map documents a rugged rangeland economy where established homesteads like Butler Ranch and R Johnson Ranch sit along seasonal watercourses. The presence of the Hilton Mine and several survey markers, including an Oil Well and Drill Hole, point to the extractive industries that have long operated alongside cattle grazing in this corner of the state. Narrow canyons such as Holdup Canyon and Timber Canyon cut through the high ground, while prominent landmarks like McKenzie Butte and Thumb Butte provide navigational anchors for the sparse network of dirt tracks including the Cave Hills Road. Numerous named water sources, such as John Brown Spring No 2 and McKenzie Spring, underscore the vital importance of dependable water in this arid environment.