1965 Map of Mineral Ridge

About this map

The Clearwater State Forest dominates the northern reaches of this Missoula County landscape, where the terrain is defined by a dense network of mountain drainages. Mapping of the area reveals an active mid-century interest in the region's mineral resources, highlighted by the Linton Mine and various Prospect locations scattered across the slopes. The topography is anchored by the prominent Mineral Ridge, which serves as a literal divide between numerous named waterways. These include Cramer Creek and its western fork, as well as Ashby Creek and the East Fork Ashby Creek. The layout of these streams and the isolated mining markers suggest a landscape primarily utilized for timber and resource extraction during the mid-1960s, with very little permanent settlement beyond these industrial interests.