2017 Map of Palisade Butte

About this map

The Highwood Mountains dominate this 2017 survey of the borderlands between Chouteau and Judith Basin counties. The western portion of the sheet is largely contained within the Lewis & Clark National Forest, characterized by high-elevation peaks such as Mt Kennon and East Peak. The terrain is deeply incised by a complex network of drainage systems, including Shonkin Creek and the curiously named In-moolsh Creek. Moving eastward, the landscape transitions toward the Libby Hills and the prominent volcanic landmark of Palisade Butte. The road network reflects the area's rural livestock and timber heritage, with thoroughfares like Shonkin Rd and Cottonwood Creek Rd following the natural contours of the stream valleys. Water sources like Jensen Spring provide localized points of interest in an otherwise arid, high-country environment where the timber-lined creeks define the layout of the land.