2014 Map of Merino

About this map

Merino and Dover anchor this high plains landscape in central Montana, where the terrain is defined by a network of seasonal watercourses and prominent landforms. The Surprise Creek Colony stands as a focal point of communal agricultural life, situated south of the namesake Surprise Cr. This drainage system, which includes the N Fork Surprise Cr and Sun Cr, feeds into the regional topography alongside other notable waterways like Meadow Cr and Wolf Cr. The presence of Fox Coulee and the distinct elevation of Antelope Butte illustrate the erosion-carved character of the Judith Basin. Modern infrastructure is represented by Us-87, which cuts diagonally through the southern half of the quadrangle, intersecting local routes such as Surprise Creek Rd and Broken Arrow Rd. The map also documents ranching-era legacy through specifically named thoroughfares like Merino Rd and Merino Bench Rd.