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2020 Map of Shell Butte

Name: 2020 Topographic Map of Shell Butte
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2020
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2020

About this map

Shell Butte rises as the primary topographic landmark in this section of Fallon County, overlooking a landscape defined by an intricate network of seasonal drainage and historic cattle trails. The map records a series of named routes that suggest a deep history of western transit and ranching, such as the Custer Camp Trl, Snake Trl, and Sage Trl. These primitive roads crisscross the high plains, following the natural contours between creek beds.

Water distribution is sparse but vital, with the Middle Fork Cabin Cr and Beaver Cr winding through the northern and eastern reaches, while Cannonball Cr and the Fork of Beaver Cr drain the southern sections. The grid-like survey lines of T10N and T9N reveal the systematic division of this Montana ranch land, where local landmarks like Beaver Slide Rd and Big Hill Rd provide specific reference points for navigating the expansive terrain.