List of mountains in Musselshell County, Montana facts for kids
Musselshell County, located in the beautiful state of Montana, is home to many interesting natural features. Among these are at least 11 named mountains and buttes. These landforms are important parts of the county's landscape, offering great views and unique natural environments. They help shape the local weather and are often home to different kinds of plants and animals.
Exploring Musselshell County's Mountains
Musselshell County is known for its wide-open spaces and interesting landforms. The mountains and buttes here are not as tall as some of the famous peaks in other parts of Montana, but they are still important landmarks. They stand out from the flatter areas around them, creating a unique look for the county.
What is a Butte?
Many of the landforms in Musselshell County are called "buttes." A butte is a type of hill that stands alone and has very steep sides, often with a flat top. They are smaller than mountains but still rise high above the surrounding land. Buttes are formed over millions of years as wind and water wear away softer rock, leaving behind harder rock formations.
Meet the Named Peaks
Musselshell County has several named mountains and buttes, each with its own unique location and height. Here are some of the notable ones:
- Chimney Butte: This butte stands at about 3,658 feet (1,115 meters) tall. It is located at 46°25′10″N 108°13′39″W / 46.41944°N 108.22750°W.
- Dunn Mountain: One of the taller peaks, Dunn Mountain reaches about 4,724 feet (1,440 meters) high. You can find it at 46°15′14″N 108°19′43″W / 46.25389°N 108.32861°W.
- Elbow Hill: This hill is about 4,058 feet (1,237 meters) in elevation. Its location is 46°16′18″N 108°24′40″W / 46.27167°N 108.41111°W.
- Johnston Mountain: Standing at about 4,665 feet (1,422 meters), Johnston Mountain is another significant peak. It is located at 46°15′28″N 108°22′03″W / 46.25778°N 108.36750°W.
- Kilby Butte: Kilby Butte is about 3,527 feet (1,075 meters) tall. Its coordinates are 46°31′42″N 108°22′07″W / 46.52833°N 108.36861°W.
- Naderman Buttes: This group of buttes reaches about 3,802 feet (1,159 meters) in height. They are found at 46°25′04″N 108°47′27″W / 46.41778°N 108.79083°W.
- Signal Mountain: Signal Mountain is about 4,153 feet (1,266 meters) high. It is located at 46°15′37″N 108°26′54″W / 46.26028°N 108.44833°W.
- Square Butte: This butte is about 4,528 feet (1,380 meters) tall. You can find it at 46°18′36″N 108°13′10″W / 46.31000°N 108.21944°W.
- Steamboat Rock: Steamboat Rock is about 4,114 feet (1,254 meters) in elevation. Its location is 46°36′37″N 108°55′48″W / 46.61028°N 108.93000°W.
- Three Buttes: This group of buttes reaches about 4,577 feet (1,395 meters) high. They are located at 46°18′08″N 108°13′52″W / 46.30222°N 108.23111°W.
- Timber Buttes: Timber Buttes are about 3,950 feet (1,204 meters) tall. Their coordinates are 46°29′41″N 108°51′35″W / 46.49472°N 108.85972°W.
These natural landmarks are important for understanding the geography of Musselshell County and the wider state of Montana.