2011 Map of Nelson Creek Bay

About this map

Fort Peck Lake defines the northern and western reaches of this landscape, where the Missouri River's impoundment creates deep inlets like Nelson Creek Bay and McGuire Creek Bay. This terrain is characterized by a complex network of coulees and ridges, such as Racetrack Ridge and Jacks Ridge, which separate the various drainage basins feeding into the lake. The presence of Carney Springs near the headwaters of Nelson Creek suggests vital water sources for ranching in this McCone County region. Shoreline features including North Twitchell Point and Jacks Point mark the interface between the high plains and the reservoir, showing how the landscape was altered by mid-century infrastructure projects. The map captures the specialized geography of the Big Sky country, from Coal Bank Coulee to the remote cattle-grazing lands surrounding Romine Coulee.