1968 Map of Stemple Pass

About this map

The Continental Divide zigzags across this high-country landscape, marking the hydrological spine of the Helena National Forest. At the time of this 1968 field survey, the area was defined by its mineral history and steep terrain, with Stemple Pass and Flesher Pass providing critical crossings through the mountains. To the south, the settlement of Gould sits near the headwaters of Fool Hen Creek and Virginia Creek, surrounded by numerous prospects and the Wizard mine. The drainage patterns are intricate, with the Blackfoot River catching northern runoff from Horsefly Creek, while the southern slopes are carved by Page Gulch and Bear Gulch. A rare sign of early water management appears near the southern border with the Pilgeram Ditch, which redirected flow along the timbered slopes. This map documents a quiet period of high-altitude prospecting and forest management before modern developments reached this part of the Rockies.