1988 Hyalite Canyon, MT | 7.5'x7.5' Shaded Historic USGS Map

Hyalite Canyon is a very special place for many folks. The deep glacially sculpted canyons lay below stunning hanging valleys amidst craggy peaks. The area contains volcanic geology and is named after the Hyalite Opal - a variety of opal that becomes fluorescent under UV light. Most local hikers, skiers, ice climbers and many other recreationalists spend a good number of days in Hyalite each year. Much of this area lays in the Porcupine-Buffalo Wilderness study area, an area deemed worthy of wilderness designation but that still allows multiple uses. 

Hyalite is most famous for the ice climbing that can be found here. The volcanic cliffs store and seep water throughout the year and generally by thanksgiving, many cliffs and gullies are lined with beautiful blue, green and yellow water ice. Climbers from around the world come here to experience what hyalite provides. From beginner accessible climbs to burly test pieces, hyalite provides for all winter climbers.

Another Hyalite Canyon map featuring the climbing there is available in our recreation section.

We used recent digital elevation data combined with modern rendering techniques to enhance this hand selected, vintage USGS map. Even though the map is 2 dimensional, the techniques applied make it appear to pop off the page.

Please Note: Reading the text on the map can sometimes be difficult, primarily because of the historic map's small font size and age. In areas where relief shading obscure text, it can become illegible. To enhance readability, we recommend ordering a larger map size, although the text may still be obscured in darker areas.