Our Beartooth Highway guide covers practical planning for Beartooth Highway Wyoming — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.
Often called 'America's Most Beautiful Highway,' the Beartooth Highway Wyoming is a bucket-list drive that carves its way through dramatic mountain vistas, alpine plateaus, and past glacial lakes. This 68-mile All-American Road, designated as a National Scenic Byway, offers an unparalleled journey across the Beartooth Mountains, connecting Red Lodge, Montana, with Cooke City, Montana, and serving as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park's northeast entrance. Our team has explored these rugged peaks and pristine valleys, and we're here to share our confident, specific advice for making the most of your trip along this iconic route.
Why Visit Beartooth Highway
The Beartooth Highway isn't just a road; it's an experience that immerses you in one of the most diverse ecosystems accessible by vehicle in the United States. As you ascend to nearly 11,000 feet at Beartooth Pass, you'll witness breathtaking panoramas that stretch for miles, revealing snow-capped peaks, deep canyons, and hundreds of alpine lakes. It’s a place where the grandeur of the Rockies is on full display, offering endless opportunities for photography, wildlife viewing, and simply soaking in the vastness of nature. We believe the sheer scale and raw beauty of the landscape here set it apart from many other scenic drives, making it an essential destination for anyone seeking true mountain wilderness.
Our team finds the Beartooth Highway Wyoming to be a truly transformative journey. The elevation changes, the unexpected snowdrifts even in summer, and the constant presence of majestic peaks create a sense of awe that few other roads can replicate. It’s a testament to the power of nature and an engineering marvel that allows us to access such remote beauty.
Who It's Best For
The Beartooth Highway caters to a wide range of travelers, from adventurous road-trippers to families looking for unforgettable scenery. It's ideal for:
- Scenic Drivers: If you love winding mountain roads, dramatic overlooks, and continuous photo opportunities, this highway is tailor-made for you.
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hikers, anglers, and campers will find a wealth of trails, pristine lakes, and designated campgrounds along the route, offering access to the Beartooth-Absaroka Wilderness.
- Wildlife Watchers: Keep your binoculars ready for mountain goats, bighorn sheep, moose, and even the occasional grizzly bear in the alpine tundra.
- Families: With numerous pullouts for stretching legs, short walks to alpine lakes, and the sheer wonder of high-altitude landscapes, it’s an easy win for families with kids of all ages. Many overlooks, like Rock Creek Vista, offer ample parking and accessible paths to stunning views.
- Photographers: The ever-changing light, diverse ecosystems, and sweeping vistas provide endless inspiration for capturing stunning landscape and wildlife shots.
While the drive can be challenging with its switchbacks and high elevations, it's generally well-maintained and accessible for most vehicles during its operating season.
How to Get There
The Beartooth Highway (US-212) spans 68 miles between Red Lodge, Montana, on its eastern end, and Cooke City, Montana, near the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park, on its western end. We typically recommend approaching from either Red Lodge or as an extension of a trip to Yellowstone.
Approaching from the East (Red Lodge, MT)
Red Lodge is easily accessible from Interstate 90. Take Exit 367 at Laurel, Montana, which will lead you directly to Red Lodge. From Red Lodge, simply head south on US Highway 212, and you'll begin your ascent onto the Beartooth Highway. This approach offers a dramatic climb through switchbacks, quickly gaining elevation and showcasing the rugged beauty of the Rock Creek Canyon. The Red Lodge Visitors Center is an excellent first stop for up-to-date road conditions and local information.
Approaching from the West (Cooke City, MT)
If you're coming from Yellowstone National Park, exit through the northeast entrance, and you'll find yourself directly on the Beartooth Highway. Cooke City and Silver Gate, Montana, are the last towns you'll pass through before the main climb. From Cody, Wyoming, you can take Wyoming Highway 120 north, then turn onto the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway (Wyoming Highway 296), which eventually connects with US-212, the Beartooth Highway, a few miles east of Cooke City. This route itself is a spectacular drive and a recommended detour.
Beartooth Highway Parking
Parking along the Beartooth Highway is generally available at designated scenic overlooks, trailheads, and campgrounds. Popular spots like Beartooth Pass Vista, Rock Creek Vista, and Gardner Lake Overlook offer ample parking areas, though some, like the access road to Beartooth Pass Vista, might be gravel and require caution. During peak season, especially on weekends, these pullouts can fill up, so arriving early is always a good strategy for quieter conditions and better access. There are no specific parking fees for the highway itself, but standard fees apply if you enter Yellowstone National Park.
Top Things to Do
The Beartooth Highway offers a wealth of activities beyond just driving. Our team suggests planning for a minimum of three hours to drive the entire byway, but we highly recommend dedicating a full day or even multiple days to truly experience all the things to do at Beartooth Highway. Here are our top recommendations for things to do at Beartooth Highway:
- Drive the Scenic Byway: Naturally, the drive itself is the main attraction. Take your time navigating the switchbacks and stopping at every scenic overlook. The views from Vista Point, offering incredible vistas of Rock Creek Canyon, are particularly stunning.
- Visit Beartooth Pass: At 10,947 feet, this is the highest point on the highway and offers panoramic views of the surrounding Beartooth Mountains. Be prepared for potentially strong winds and cooler temperatures, even in summer.
- Explore Alpine Lakes: The highway is dotted with hundreds of high-alpine lakes. Beartooth Lake is a popular spot for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking, with a picnic area nearby. Island Lake and Gardner Lake also offer stunning scenery and hiking opportunities.
- Hike the Trails: Numerous trailheads provide access to the vast Beartooth-Absaroka Wilderness. Popular options include the Gardner Lake Trail, a challenging hike that descends to the lake, and the Lake Fork Trail, which leads to several alpine lakes. Always carry bear spray and know how to use it, as you'll be in bear country.
- Stop at Clay Butte Lookout Tower: Located off a three-mile gravel road from the main highway, this former fire lookout now serves as a visitor center and offers 360-degree views that include Montana's highest point, Granite Peak, and Beartooth Butte. Trailers are not recommended on the road to Clay Butte, but parking is available at Beartooth Lake a few miles beyond.
- Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife. We've often spotted mountain goats clinging to cliffsides, bighorn sheep, moose in marshy areas, and various bird species.
- Photography: With its dramatic landscapes, wildflowers (especially in mid-July), and unique geological formations, the Beartooth Highway is a photographer's paradise.
When considering things to do at Beartooth Highway, remember that high-alpine weather can change rapidly, so always be prepared with layers and check conditions before heading out.
Best Time to Visit
The Beartooth Highway is typically open from late May (Memorial Day weekend) to mid-October (Columbus Day), weather permitting. However, the "best" time depends on what you're hoping to experience:
- Early Summer (Late May to Early July): This is when you'll still see impressive snowbanks lining the road, sometimes towering over ten feet high, creating a unique driving experience. Alpine wildflowers begin to bloom, and waterfalls are often at their most powerful due to snowmelt. Be prepared for colder temperatures and the possibility of temporary road closures due to late-season snowstorms.
- Mid-Summer (Mid-July to August): Generally considered the most reliable time for warm weather and clear roads. All hiking trails are typically accessible, and the alpine meadows are in full bloom. This is also the busiest time, so expect more traffic and fuller parking lots.
- Late Summer/Early Fall (September to Mid-October): The crowds thin out, and the autumn colors begin to emerge, especially in the lower elevations. Crisp air and clear skies often make for excellent visibility. However, temperatures drop significantly, and early snowfalls can lead to road closures, sometimes permanent for the season, so always check conditions before you go.
Our team advises that regardless of when you visit, flexibility is key. The weather in the Beartooth Mountains is notoriously unpredictable. Always check the latest road status with the Montana and Wyoming departments of transportation before you depart.
Where to Stay Nearby
Finding comfortable and convenient Beartooth Highway lodging is crucial for a multi-day exploration of the area. While there are no hotels directly on the highway itself, several gateway communities offer a range of accommodations.
Cooke City, Montana
Located at the western end of the Beartooth Highway and just outside Yellowstone's northeast entrance, Cooke City is a rustic, charming mountain town. It offers a selection of cabins, motels, and independent lodges. This is an excellent base for exploring the western portion of the highway and accessing Yellowstone National Park. Keep in mind that options here are more limited and tend to book up quickly, especially during peak season.
Red Lodge, Montana
At the eastern gateway, Red Lodge is a historic mining town with a more developed infrastructure. Here, you'll find a wider variety of Beartooth Highway lodging, including historic hotels, charming bed-and-breakfasts, vacation rentals, and several independent small hotels and inns. Red Lodge also boasts more dining and shopping options, making it a great place to start or end your Beartooth adventure.
Cody, Wyoming
About an hour's drive south of the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway junction, Cody offers the most extensive range of lodging, dining, and attractions. If you're looking for more amenities, including larger hotels, chain accommodations, and a vibrant Western heritage scene (like the Buffalo Bill Center of the West), Cody is an excellent choice. It provides a comfortable base for exploring both the Beartooth Highway and other attractions in Northwest Wyoming.
Camping Near Beartooth Highway
For those who prefer to sleep under the stars, there are numerous campgrounds along and near the Beartooth Highway. In the Red Lodge area, several campgrounds like Parkside, Greenough Lake, and Limber Pine are available, some of which are reservable. On the Beartooth Plateau in the Shoshone National Forest, campgrounds such as Beartooth Lake, Island Lake, Crazy Creek, and Fox Creek operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Near Cooke City, Colter and Soda Butte Campgrounds are also first-come, first-served and are generally for hard-sided campers due to bear activity [cite:: 9]. We strongly advise checking with the local Forest Service offices for the latest conditions and regulations, as bear safety is paramount.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
To truly appreciate the Beartooth Highway and its surroundings, we recommend at least a two-day itinerary. This allows for ample time to drive, hike, and explore without feeling rushed.
Day 1: Red Lodge to Cooke City
- Morning: Start your day early from Red Lodge. Fuel up your vehicle (there are no services on the pass) and grab any last-minute supplies. Begin your ascent on the Beartooth Highway, stopping frequently at overlooks like Vista Point for incredible canyon views.
- Late Morning/Lunch: Continue towards Beartooth Pass, stopping at the West Summit Overlook for photos at the highest point. Consider a short, easy walk around one of the numerous alpine lakes such as Island Lake or Beartooth Lake, perhaps enjoying a picnic lunch.
- Afternoon: Detour to Clay Butte Lookout Tower for 360-degree panoramic views. Continue your drive towards Cooke City, stopping at other scenic pullouts like Gardner Lake Overlook.
- Evening: Arrive in Cooke City, check into your Beartooth Highway lodging, and enjoy dinner at a local establishment.
Day 2: Cooke City, Chief Joseph Scenic Byway & Return to Red Lodge (or Yellowstone)
- Morning: Explore Cooke City, perhaps visiting the Cooke City Chamber of Commerce for local insights. Depending on your interest, you could take a short hike near Cooke City or head into Yellowstone National Park for a brief visit (remembering you'll need a park pass).
- Late Morning/Lunch: If returning to Red Lodge, take the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway (WY-296) south from US-212. This stunning byway offers its own dramatic landscapes, including the Sunlight Basin and the highest bridge in Wyoming over Sunlight Creek. Enjoy a packed lunch at one of the overlooks.
- Afternoon: Continue on WY-296 until it meets WY-120, then head north back towards Red Lodge (or south towards Cody if that's your next destination).
- Evening: Arrive back in Red Lodge, perhaps enjoying a celebratory dinner after completing one of America's most beautiful drives.
FAQ
Beartooth Highway with kids
Absolutely! The Beartooth Highway is a fantastic destination for families. Kids will be captivated by the rugged mountains, the sight of snow even in summer, and the unique alpine ecosystems. There are plenty of opportunities to get out and stretch legs at numerous overlooks, and short, easy walks to alpine lakes like Beartooth Lake are perfect for little adventurers. Rock Creek Vista also offers ample parking and accessible paths. Just be sure to pack layers, snacks, and binoculars for wildlife spotting, and remember that high elevations can sometimes affect younger children, so take it slow.
best hotels near Beartooth Highway
The best hotels near Beartooth Highway are found in the gateway towns. In Red Lodge, Montana, you'll find a variety of charming independent hotels, inns, and bed-and-breakfasts, some with historical significance. For a more rustic, authentic mountain experience, Cooke City, Montana, offers cabins and lodges. If you prefer more amenities and a wider selection, Cody, Wyoming, provides larger hotels and chain accommodations, though it's a bit further from the highway itself. We always recommend booking your Beartooth Highway lodging well in advance, especially during the peak summer months.
Beartooth Highway tips
Our top Beartooth Highway tips include: 1) Always check road conditions before you go, as weather changes rapidly and can cause closures, even in summer. 2) Pack layers, including warm clothing, a hat, and gloves, regardless of the season, as temperatures at the pass can be significantly colder. 3) Fuel up your vehicle in Red Lodge or Cooke City, as there are no services on the pass. 4) Bring plenty of water and snacks. 5) Allow ample time for the drive – at least 3-4 hours one-way without significant stops, and a full day if you plan to hike or explore. 6) Carry bear spray and know how to use it if you plan on hiking. 7) Arrive early for quieter roads and better parking at popular overlooks.
where to stay near Beartooth Highway
For convenient access to the Beartooth Highway, we recommend staying in Red Lodge, Montana, on the eastern side, or Cooke City, Montana, on the western side. Red Lodge offers a good mix of hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals, while Cooke City provides a more rustic, cabin-style experience. For those seeking more extensive services and attractions, Cody, Wyoming, is a viable option, though it requires a longer drive to reach the highway. Additionally, numerous campgrounds are available in the surrounding national forests for those who prefer camping.
Beartooth Highway parking
Beartooth Highway parking is available at numerous designated scenic overlooks, trailheads, and picnic areas along the route. Popular spots like Rock Creek Vista, Beartooth Pass Vista, and Gardner Lake Overlook offer generous parking areas. While generally sufficient, these can fill up during peak summer weekends, so an early start is advisable. There are no specific parking fees for the highway itself, but be aware that if you continue into Yellowstone National Park, standard park entrance fees apply.
best time to visit Beartooth Highway
The best time to visit Beartooth Highway is typically from mid-July to August for the most reliable warm weather and clear roads, making all trails and activities fully accessible. If you want to see impressive snowbanks and wildflowers, late May to early July is spectacular, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential temporary closures. For fewer crowds and the chance to see fall colors, September to mid-October is beautiful, but again, early snow can lead to closures. Always check current road conditions before planning your trip.
The Beartooth Highway Wyoming is more than just a road; it’s an unforgettable journey through some of America’s most stunning high-alpine wilderness. From the dramatic switchbacks to the serene alpine lakes, every turn offers a new vista to behold. Our team at Roam States encourages you to embark on this incredible adventure, taking your time to explore its many facets. Prepare well, stay flexible, and you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.
Last updated: 2026-07-08 by the Roam States team.