List of mountains in McCone County, Montana facts for kids
McCone County, located in eastern Montana, is a place with a unique landscape. It's known for its wide-open spaces and interesting landforms, especially its many hills and buttes. These aren't huge, jagged mountains like you might see in western Montana, but they are important parts of the local scenery and history. There are at least 26 named hills and buttes in McCone County, each with its own name and location.
What Are Buttes and Hills?
You might hear the words "butte" and "hill" used a lot when talking about McCone County's landscape. But what exactly are they?
Buttes
A butte is a type of isolated hill with steep, often vertical, sides and a small, flat top. Think of it like a natural tower or a small plateau. They are often formed when softer rock around them erodes away, leaving the harder rock standing tall. Many buttes in McCone County are named, like Bald Butte or Big Butte.
Hills
A hill is a landform that is higher than the surrounding land but not as tall or steep as a mountain. Hills are usually rounded and can be found in groups or alone. They are common features in many parts of Montana, including McCone County. Some examples here include Andrews Hill and Coal Hill.
Exploring McCone County's Peaks
McCone County is home to many named hills and buttes, each adding to the unique character of the area. These landforms vary in height, with some reaching over 2,900 feet (about 884 meters) above sea level. While they might not be as famous as the Rocky Mountains, they are important landmarks for locals and offer interesting views of the prairie.
Some of the notable peaks include:
- Chalk Butte: This is one of the higher points, reaching about 2,982 feet (909 meters). Its name might come from the type of rock found there.
- Devils Table Rock: This peak, around 2,749 feet (838 meters), sounds mysterious! Its name suggests a flat top, like a table.
- Goat Mountain: Standing at about 2,657 feet (810 meters), this hill might have been named for animals that once lived there.
- Indian Hill: This hill reaches about 2,726 feet (831 meters) and is another significant landmark in the county.
- Lower Summit: At approximately 2,920 feet (890 meters), this is one of the taller points in McCone County.
These hills and buttes are not just geographical features; they are also part of the natural beauty and history of McCone County. They provide habitats for local wildlife and offer quiet places to explore the vast Montana landscape.
See also
