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Square Butte (Montana)

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description Square Butte (Montana) Overview

Square Butte is a prominent flat-topped igneous landform in Chouteau County, Montana, rising sharply above the surrounding plains. It is a laccolith, formed when magma intruded between sedimentary layers and lifted the overlying rock before erosion exposed the resistant mass. Its isolated profile made it a regional landmark, and western artist Charles M. Russell depicted the butte and nearby landscape in multiple works.

help Square Butte (Montana) FAQ

What is Square Butte in Montana?

Square Butte is a flat-topped igneous landform in Chouteau County, Montana. It rises sharply above the surrounding plains because erosion exposed a resistant rock mass.

Is Square Butte a volcano?

Square Butte is a laccolith, not a simple volcanic cone or crater. Magma pushed between sedimentary layers, lifted the rock above it, and later erosion exposed the resistant mass.

How did Square Butte get its flat top?

The shape reflects the way its resistant igneous rock resisted erosion while softer surrounding material wore away. Its origin as a laccolith explains why a once-buried intrusion now stands above Montana's plains.

Where is Square Butte located?

Square Butte is in Chouteau County, Montana, above the surrounding plains. Its flat top and steep sides make it a clear example of the butte landform.

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