Beartooth Highway Travel Guide — Montana

This iconic 68-mile stretch of U.S. Route 212, often hailed as "the most beautiful drive in America," connects the charming Montana town of Red Lodge to the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, traversing both Montana and Wyoming. Our team at Roam States has navigated its switchbacks and explored its hidden gems, and we're here to share our expert insights to help you plan an unforgettable journey.

Why Visit Beartooth Highway

We believe the Beartooth Highway offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Northern Rockies. It's a journey through one of the most diverse ecosystems accessible by car in the United States, winding through the Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains and across expansive high alpine plateaus. As you ascend, you'll witness a striking transition from lush forests to a rugged, treeless tundra, dotted with countless glacial lakes and framed by jagged peaks.

The allure isn't just the destination at the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park; it's the journey itself. Each turn reveals a new panorama, from cascading waterfalls like Crazy Creek Falls to the sweeping vistas of Rock Creek Canyon. It's a place where you can truly feel on top of the world, with the Beartooth Pass reaching an impressive 10,947 feet above sea level. This elevation provides not only spectacular views but also a unique environment where snow can persist well into summer, creating a stark and beautiful contrast with vibrant alpine wildflowers.

For those seeking adventure beyond the windshield, the highway offers access to a million-plus acre wilderness for hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting. We've seen mountain goats clinging to cliffsides and marmots basking in the sun, making every stop an opportunity for discovery. It's a photographer's dream, a nature lover's paradise, and a testament to the engineering marvel that carved this road through such formidable terrain.

Who It's Best For

The Beartooth Highway is best suited for a wide range of travelers, though some will appreciate it more than others. We find it particularly ideal for:

• Scenic Drive Enthusiasts: If you love road trips and breathtaking views, this highway is a non-negotiable. Charles Kuralt famously called it "the most beautiful drive in America," and we wholeheartedly agree.
• Nature Photographers: The dramatic landscapes, alpine lakes, and potential for wildlife sightings offer endless photographic opportunities.
• Outdoor Adventurers: Hikers, anglers, and campers will find numerous trailheads, fishing spots, and campgrounds along the route, providing access to the vast Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness.
• Families with Older Children: The numerous pullouts make it easy to stop and explore, and the sheer scale of the mountains can be awe-inspiring for kids. However, younger children might find the long drive and winding roads challenging.
• Yellowstone Visitors: For those heading to or from Yellowstone National Park, the Beartooth Highway serves as a spectacular gateway, especially to the park's Northeast Entrance.

We recommend that those prone to motion sickness take precautions, as the highway features numerous switchbacks and steep grades, particularly on the Red Lodge side. Drivers should also be comfortable with mountain driving and aware of rapidly changing weather conditions at high elevations.

Getting There & Parking

Understanding how to get to Beartooth Highway and where to find Beartooth Highway parking is crucial for a smooth trip. The highway, officially U.S. Route 212, spans 68 miles and can be accessed from two primary points: Red Lodge, Montana, on the eastern side, and Cooke City/Silver Gate, Montana, near the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, on the western side.

From Red Lodge, Montana (Eastern Entrance)

Red Lodge is often considered the traditional starting point for the Beartooth Highway. From I-90 in Laurel, Montana, take Exit 434 and travel 39 miles south on Highway 212 directly into Red Lodge. The scenic drive officially begins just south of Red Lodge. The initial climb from Red Lodge involves a series of steep switchbacks and hairpin turns as you ascend the mountain walls.

From Cooke City/Silver Gate, Montana (Western Entrance)

If you're coming from Yellowstone National Park, you'll exit through the Northeast Entrance, which leads directly to Cooke City and Silver Gate. From here, the Beartooth Highway heads east towards Red Lodge. This approach offers a different perspective, starting at a higher elevation and gradually ascending to the pass.

Parking Along the Highway

Parking is generally available at numerous designated pullouts, scenic overlooks, and trailheads along the entire 68-mile route. These areas are well-marked and provide ample space for vehicles, including RVs. Some of our favorite spots with generous parking include:

• Rock Creek Vista Point: Located about 21 miles from Red Lodge, this popular stop offers expansive views and public restrooms.
• Gardner Lake Pullout: A spacious parking area on the south side of the highway, offering views of the lake and access to the Beartooth Recreation Loop.
• Beartooth Pass Overlook (West Summit): The highest point on the highway, with a large pullout for 360-degree panoramic views.
• Pilot and Index Peaks Overlook: Offers impressive views of the Clark's Fork River Valley and the iconic peaks.
• Clay Butte Fire Lookout Tower: A slight detour up a gravel road, but offers parking and panoramic views.

We always recommend arriving early, especially on weekends during peak season, to secure parking at the most popular overlooks. While no reservations are required for driving or parking at overlooks, it's wise to check road conditions before you depart, as temporary closures can occur due to weather.

Top Things to Do

The Beartooth Highway is brimming with opportunities for adventure and breathtaking sights. Our team has compiled the top things to do at Beartooth Highway, ensuring you experience the best of this incredible region. Don't just drive; stop, explore, and breathe in the alpine air.

• Drive the Entire Byway: The 68-mile journey itself is the primary attraction. Take your time, pull over at every scenic overlook, and soak in the ever-changing landscapes.
• Stop at Rock Creek Vista Point: This is a must-do. Located 21 miles from Red Lodge, it offers incredible views of Rock Creek Canyon and Hellroaring Plateau from an observation platform, complete with interpretive signs. It even has the nicest public restrooms on the highway.
• Visit Beartooth Pass (West Summit Overlook): At 10,947 feet, this is the highest point on the highway, offering unparalleled 360-degree views of the alpine tundra and jagged peaks. Snow can often be found here even in summer.
• Explore Alpine Lakes: The Beartooth Mountains are home to nearly 1,000 turquoise lakes. Beartooth Lake, near the Top of the World Store, is easily accessible and great for fishing, canoeing, or a short hike. Island Lake is another gem, accessible via a short hike.
• Hike the Trails: Numerous hiking opportunities abound. Consider the Beartooth High Lakes Trail, Beartooth Lake National Recreation Trail, or Twin Lakes Trail for varying skill levels. The Beartooth Loop Trail is also accessible from the Gardner Lake Pullout. Remember, you're in bear country, so carry bear spray.
• Detour to Clay Butte Fire Lookout Tower: A three-mile drive up a gravel road leads to this historic lookout, now a visitor center, offering panoramic views of the Absaroka Range and Beartooth Butte, with interpretive displays about the 1988 wildfires.
• Spot Wildlife: Keep your eyes peeled for mountain goats, moose, elk, marmots, and even black or grizzly bears. The Beartooth Mountains are part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
• Experience Summer Skiing: If you're visiting in late spring or early summer (late April to early July), check out Beartooth Basin Summer Ski Area, one of North America's oldest ski training areas.

Things to Do in Red Lodge

As the eastern gateway to the Beartooth Highway, Red Lodge, Montana, offers a charming and vibrant experience that complements your mountain adventure. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Red Lodge:

• Explore Downtown Red Lodge: Wander along historic Broadway Avenue, filled with charming shops, art galleries, local restaurants, and historic buildings. The Pollard Hotel, dating back to the 1890s, is a historic landmark.
• Visit the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary: Just outside of town, this non-profit cares for native Montana animals that cannot be released back into the wild, offering an educational and heartwarming experience.
• Enjoy Outdoor Activities: Red Lodge is a hub for outdoor recreation. You can go horseback riding with local outfitters, try fly fishing on Rock Creek, or explore hiking and mountain biking trails like the Lake Fork Trails or the Wild Bill Lake Loop.
• Take a Scenic Chairlift Ride: During summer weekends, Red Lodge Mountain Resort offers scenic chairlift rides with panoramic mountain views.
• Indulge at the Montana Candy Emporium: A delightful and eclectic candy shop offering old-school candies and handmade sweets.
• Attend Local Events: Red Lodge hosts various summer events, including the Home of Champions Rodeo on Fourth of July weekend, the Beartooth Bike Rally in mid-July, and the Festival of Nations in early August.

Best Time to Visit

The Beartooth Highway is a seasonal road, and timing your visit is crucial to experiencing its full grandeur. We've found that the best time to visit Beartooth Highway is typically from late May to mid-October, weather permitting.

• Opening Date 2026: The highway is usually scheduled to open on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend. For 2026, the initial target opening date was May 22, but a section of the highway was delayed until May 23 due to a winter storm.
• Closing Date 2026: The highway typically closes around October 15, but this can vary significantly based on early winter weather conditions and snow accumulation. For 2025, the closure was targeted for October 15.
• Peak Season (July & August): These months offer the most reliable weather, with warmer daytime temperatures (50-70°F at high elevations) and usually clear roads. Alpine wildflowers are often in full bloom in mid-July. However, expect larger crowds and busier pullouts.
• Shoulder Seasons (Late May/Early June & Late September/Early October): These periods can be stunning, with fewer crowds and the chance to see lingering snowbanks (especially in late May/early June) or vibrant fall foliage (late September/early October). However, weather is more unpredictable, with possibilities of snow, cold temperatures, and temporary closures. We advise checking the Montana Department of Transportation updates or calling the Red Lodge Visitors Center for current road status before you go.

Regardless of when you visit, we recommend being prepared for all four seasons. Pack layers, as temperatures can drop quickly, especially at higher elevations, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer.

Where to Stay Nearby

To fully experience the Beartooth Highway, we recommend basing yourself in one of the charming gateway communities. Both Red Lodge, Montana, and Cooke City/Silver Gate, Montana, offer unique lodging and amenities.

Red Lodge, Montana

Red Lodge is a vibrant and historic town, making it an excellent base for exploring the eastern side of the Beartooth Highway. It offers a wider range of accommodations, dining, and activities.

• Hotels and Motels: Options range from historic establishments like The Pollard Hotel to comfortable motels. We suggest looking for places that offer convenient access to Highway 212.
• Vacation Rentals: Numerous cabins, homes, and condos are available for rent, providing more space and amenities, especially for families.
• Campgrounds: Several national forest campgrounds are located near Red Lodge, such as Limber Pine Campground and Greenough Lake Campground, offering rustic camping experiences with access to hiking and fishing. Red Lodge KOA Journey is another popular option with more amenities, located just minutes from the highway.

Cooke City & Silver Gate, Montana

These small, rustic towns are located at the western end of the Beartooth Highway, just outside the Northeast Entrance to Yellowstone National Park. They are ideal if your primary focus is Yellowstone or if you prefer a more remote, wilderness-oriented stay.

• Lodges and Cabins: Accommodation options here are typically smaller lodges, motels, and cabins, often with a classic mountain feel.
• Campgrounds: Campgrounds like Colter Campground and Beartooth Lake Campground are available in the surrounding national forests, often operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Dispersed camping is also possible in designated National Forest areas along the highway, but be aware of bear country food storage rules.

We advise booking accommodations well in advance, especially for peak summer months, as options can be limited in these smaller communities.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

To truly appreciate the Beartooth Highway and its surrounding areas, we recommend dedicating at least two days. This allows for leisurely drives, ample stops, and time to explore the charming gateway towns. This itinerary assumes you're starting from Red Lodge and heading towards Yellowstone, but it can easily be reversed.

Day 1: Red Lodge to Beartooth Pass & Beyond

• Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Red Lodge & Ascent to Rock Creek Vista
  • Start your day with breakfast in Red Lodge. Grab a coffee and explore Main Street, perhaps picking up some treats at the Montana Candy Emporium.
  • Begin your drive on the Beartooth Highway (US-212) from Red Lodge. The road immediately begins its dramatic ascent with a series of switchbacks.
  • Stop at Rock Creek Vista Point (about 21 miles from Red Lodge) for your first awe-inspiring views of Rock Creek Canyon and Hellroaring Plateau. Take a short, accessible walk to the overlook.
  • Continue climbing, stopping at other pullouts like the Gardner Lake Pullout for views and a potential short hike down to the lake.
• Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Picnic with a View
  • Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the many scenic pullouts or at a picnic area near Beartooth Lake.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Beartooth Pass & Clay Butte
  • Reach Beartooth Pass (West Summit Overlook) at 10,947 feet, the highest point on the highway. Spend time taking in the panoramic 360-degree views of the alpine tundra.
  • Consider a short detour to the Clay Butte Fire Lookout Tower (a 3-mile gravel road off the main highway) for more incredible vistas and interpretive displays.
  • Continue west, descending towards the Wyoming side, passing alpine lakes like Beartooth Lake, where you might see kayakers or fishermen.
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Cooke City/Silver Gate
  • Arrive in Cooke City or Silver Gate, the western gateway towns. Check into your accommodation.
  • Enjoy dinner at one of the local eateries and prepare for your next day's adventures, perhaps into Yellowstone National Park.

Day 2: Yellowstone Exploration or Return Journey

• Option A: Yellowstone National Park (Full Day)
  • From Cooke City, you are just moments from the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park.
  • Spend the day exploring the Lamar Valley, known as "America's Serengeti" for its abundant wildlife, including bison, elk, and wolves.
  • Continue into the park to see geysers, hot springs, and other iconic features.
  • Return to Cooke City for the night or continue your Yellowstone journey.
• Option B: Return to Red Lodge (Half Day) & Red Lodge Exploration
  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Cooke City.
  • Drive back along the Beartooth Highway towards Red Lodge, taking time to stop at any overlooks you missed or want to revisit. The views are different in the opposite direction!
  • Once back in Red Lodge, spend the afternoon exploring the town further. Visit the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary, go horseback riding, or hike one of the local trails.
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner in Red Lodge.

FAQ

Beartooth Highway tips

Our top Beartooth Highway tips include checking road conditions daily, especially during shoulder seasons (late May/early June and late September/early October), as weather can change rapidly and cause temporary closures. Pack layers of clothing for varying temperatures, even in summer, as high elevations can be chilly. Fuel up in Red Lodge or Cooke City, as services are extremely limited along the 68-mile route. Carry plenty of water and snacks, and be aware of altitude sickness at the 10,947-foot Beartooth Pass. Bring bear spray if you plan on hiking, as you'll be in bear country.

Beartooth Highway parking

Beartooth Highway parking is available at numerous well-marked pullouts and scenic overlooks along the entire 68-mile route. Popular spots include Rock Creek Vista Point, Gardner Lake Pullout, and the Beartooth Pass Overlook, all offering designated parking areas. We recommend arriving early during peak season to secure a spot at the most sought-after viewpoints. Campgrounds also provide parking for their registered guests. No reservations are typically required for parking at overlooks.

best time to visit Beartooth Highway

The best time to visit Beartooth Highway is generally from late May to mid-October, when the road is open. Peak summer months of July and August offer the most consistent warm weather and full access to all activities, though with larger crowds. If you prefer fewer people and don't mind cooler temperatures and the possibility of snow, late May/early June (after the opening, which was May 23, 2026, for a section) or late September/early October (before the typical mid-October closure) can be stunning for lingering snowbanks or fall foliage.

Beartooth Highway hours and fees

The Beartooth Highway does not have specific "hours" in the traditional sense, as it is a public highway (U.S. Route 212). However, it is a seasonal road, typically open from late May (May 23, 2026, for a section) to mid-October (around October 15, 2026, is the target closure), weather permitting. There are no fees to drive the Beartooth Highway itself, as it is a National Scenic Byway. Fees would only apply if you choose to stay at a developed campground or engage in activities requiring permits within the surrounding National Forests.

Beartooth Highway itinerary

A recommended Beartooth Highway itinerary involves at least two days. Day 1: Start in Red Lodge, drive the highway with stops at Rock Creek Vista Point, Gardner Lake Pullout, and Beartooth Pass, then continue to Cooke City/Silver Gate for the night. Day 2: Explore Yellowstone National Park's Lamar Valley from Cooke City, or drive back along the Beartooth Highway to Red Lodge, stopping at previously missed overlooks and exploring Red Lodge's downtown and attractions like the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary.

Beartooth Highway travel guide

Our Beartooth Highway travel guide emphasizes that this 68-mile National Scenic Byway, connecting Red Lodge, Montana, to the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, is one of America's most beautiful drives. It features dramatic alpine scenery, numerous overlooks, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The highway is typically open from late May to mid-October, with no driving fees. We recommend checking current road conditions, packing for variable weather, and allowing ample time for stops and exploration.

The Beartooth Highway is truly a journey that stays with you long after the drive is over. The sheer scale of the mountains, the pristine alpine environment, and the engineering marvel of the road itself combine to create an unforgettable experience. We hope our guide helps you plan your adventure along this remarkable route in Montana and Wyoming, whether you're heading to Glacier National Park next or exploring the wonders of Yellowstone National Park. Prepare to be amazed.

Last updated: 2026-07-05 by the Roam States team.