Beartooth Highway
A breathtaking 68-mile scenic byway connecting Red Lodge, MT, to Yellowstone's Northeast Entrance, featuring dramatic mountain vistas and alpine lakes...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Witness the landscape awaken
Beartooth Highway
Best Time
Witness the landscape awaken
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking 68-mile scenic byway connecting Red Lodge, MT, to Yellowstone's Northeast Entrance, featuring dramatic mountain vistas and alpine lakes.
"The Beartooth Highway is a drive that truly climbs into the sky, offering views that outsmart the Rockies."
⛽ Fuel Up Before You Go
Gas stations are scarce. Fill your tank in Red Lodge or Cooke City before embarking on this scenic drive.
🚗 Drive Cautiously
Steep grades, sharp switchbacks, and potential wildlife require your full attention.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Vista Point
Highest point of the highway
Panoramic views of rugged peaks and alpine lakes. A must-stop for photos and to truly grasp the scale of the landscape.
Alpine Lakes and Meadows
Scattered along the route
Crystal-clear lakes reflecting dramatic mountain backdrops. Perfect for a peaceful moment or a quick picnic.
Wildlife Sightings
Various pull-offs and meadows
Keep an eye out for mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and other alpine wildlife. Always maintain a safe distance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything: Seasonal Access
+1Prepare for the Altitude and Weather
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⛽ Fuel Up Before You Go
Gas stations are scarce. Fill your tank in Red Lodge or Cooke City before embarking on this scenic drive.
🚗 Drive Cautiously
Steep grades, sharp switchbacks, and potential wildlife require your full attention.
🧥 Pack Layers
Weather changes rapidly at high altitudes. Be prepared for sun, wind, and even snow.
📸 Capture the Views
Numerous pull-offs offer incredible photo opportunities. Allow ample time for stops.
Tips
from all over the internet
⛽ Fuel Up Before You Go
Gas stations are scarce. Fill your tank in Red Lodge or Cooke City before embarking on this scenic drive.
🚗 Drive Cautiously
Steep grades, sharp switchbacks, and potential wildlife require your full attention.
🧥 Pack Layers
Weather changes rapidly at high altitudes. Be prepared for sun, wind, and even snow.
📸 Capture the Views
Numerous pull-offs offer incredible photo opportunities. Allow ample time for stops.
🥾 Explore Short Hikes
Many viewpoints have short trails leading to even more spectacular vistas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the Beartooth Highway's unparalleled scenic beauty, calling it one of America's most beautiful drives. The dramatic mountain vistas, alpine lakes, and challenging yet rewarding road are major highlights. Some travelers note the steep grades and switchbacks require cautious driving, and the seasonal access means planning is crucial.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Beartooth Highway (US-212) connects Red Lodge, Montana, to the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park near Cooke City, Wyoming. You can access it from either end. Many visitors drive it as part of a trip to Yellowstone.
No, the Beartooth Highway is a seasonal road, typically open from late May or early June through mid-October, weather permitting. Always check current road conditions before your trip.
Many travelers consider it a 'must-do' scenic drive. You can drive it from Red Lodge to Cooke City (or vice versa) as a standalone trip or as an entrance/exit to Yellowstone.
Yes, RVs and campers can navigate the Beartooth Highway, but drivers should be prepared for steep grades, sharp switchbacks, and narrow sections. Drive slowly and use lower gears.
While incredibly scenic, the highway has steep grades (up to 10%) and numerous switchbacks, which can be challenging for some drivers. It's engineered defiance, not for the faint of heart, but manageable with caution.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Beartooth Highway is a public road and does not require an entrance fee or ticket. However, if you are entering Yellowstone National Park via the Northeast Entrance, you will need a park pass.
The highway is open 24/7 when accessible, but its seasonal nature means it's only open during daylight hours and specific months of the year. Always check for current opening and closing dates.
There are no direct fees for driving the Beartooth Highway itself. However, any associated national forest or park entry fees would apply if you plan to stop and explore those areas.
The Beartooth Highway usually opens for the season on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend, though this can vary based on snowpack and conditions.
You can check the official websites for the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) and the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) for current road conditions and opening status.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key stops include the Summit Vista Point for panoramic views, various alpine lakes for reflection, and numerous pull-offs for wildlife spotting. Don't miss the chance to explore short trails. +2
The drive itself is about 68 miles and can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours without significant stops. However, to truly enjoy the scenery and make stops, plan for at least half a day, or even a full day.
You have a good chance of spotting mountain goats, bighorn sheep, marmots, and various bird species. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed the wildlife.
Yes, there are many opportunities for short hikes and walks from various pull-offs, leading to stunning viewpoints and alpine meadows.
The Beartooth Highway reaches an elevation of 10,977 feet at its summit, making it one of the highest paved roads in North America.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunset views are particularly spectacular.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes, while a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions and long exposures.
The Summit Vista Point offers iconic panoramic shots. Many unmarked pull-offs also provide unique perspectives of the mountains, lakes, and valleys.
Drone usage is subject to regulations in national forests and parks. Always check and adhere to local rules and restrictions before flying a drone.
Iconic subjects include the winding road itself, dramatic mountain peaks, pristine alpine lakes, wildflowers in summer, and any wildlife you might encounter. +2
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and entertainment for the drive, as services are minimal. Plan for frequent stops at viewpoints and consider short, easy walks to break up the journey. The Summit Vista Point is a great place for kids to stretch their legs and marvel at the vastness. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and that you have enough fuel. The seasonal nature of the road means it's best to visit during warmer months when the weather is more predictable.
Always check road conditions before you depart. The sheer scale of the mountains and the possibility of seeing animals like mountain goats can make this a truly memorable experience for the whole family. 🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
+1 The 68-mile stretch is packed with dramatic ascents, alpine tundra, and breathtaking panoramas that will have you pulling over at nearly every overlook. Consider driving it as part of a larger Montana or Wyoming road trip, perhaps connecting it with a visit to Yellowstone National Park. To maximize your experience, plan your trip during the shoulder seasons (late May/early June or September/early October) to potentially avoid the peak summer crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather.
Rent a comfortable vehicle that you enjoy driving, as you'll be spending a good amount of time on this incredible route. Don't forget your camera – the photo opportunities are endless, from sweeping mountain vistas to close-ups of alpine wildflowers and wildlife. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: A Road Built to Conquer
Its construction was a monumental effort, carving a path through rugged terrain to connect Red Lodge, Montana, with the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. This All-American Road is renowned for its spectacular scenery, featuring over 20 mountain peaks and glacial lakes.
The sheer scale and dramatic ascents make it a truly unforgettable driving experience. It's a testament to human ingenuity in overcoming natural obstacles to create access to unparalleled wilderness beauty. Travelers often describe the drive as 'white-knuckling' at times, but the reward is immense.
Navigating the Beartooth: Tips for a Smooth Drive
Many travelers recommend using lower gears to manage the steep grades and sharp switchbacks, especially if you're driving an RV or towing a trailer. Weather is a significant factor on the Beartooth. Even in summer, temperatures can drop dramatically, and conditions can change from sunny to foggy or even snowy in a matter of minutes.
Packing layers of clothing, including waterproof and windproof outer shells, is essential. Be prepared for the high altitude as well; stay hydrated and take breaks if you feel any symptoms of altitude sickness. When it comes to enjoying the drive, don't rush. The beauty of the Beartooth Highway lies in its expansive vistas and numerous pull-offs.
Allow ample time to stop, take photos, and simply soak in the incredible scenery. Keep an eye out for wildlife, but always maintain a safe distance and never feed the animals.
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