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2000 Map of Ross Canyon

Name: 2000 Topographic Map of Ross Canyon
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2005
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2005

About this map

Gallatin National Forest dominates the southern landscape of this Sweet Grass County region, where the terrain transitions from the high peaks of Red Mountain and Black Butte into a complex network of canyons and gulches. The western edge is defined by the Boulder River, a vital water source evidenced by an extensive irrigation system including the Ellison Ditch, Weaver Ditch, and Smoot Ditch. This infrastructure highlights the historical importance of water management in the McKenzie Flats area.

Industrial activity is marked by the Calcite Mine and several Prospects located near Calcite Gulch, suggesting a history of mineral exploration in the rugged Breaks. Access across the river is noted at Eightmile Bridge, while the interior is carved by significant geographic features like Ross Canyon and Baker Canyon. The map preserves a detailed record of local nomenclature, from Tomato Can Gulch to Piano Hill, reflecting the names given by early ranchers and miners who worked this Montana backcountry.