Otherworldly! + Lotta turnouts to enjoy the sky-high view of the world from 10k ft above the ground. + Awesome chromatic blend of green grass, yellowish plains, white snow, gray-brown rock, hazy mountains, blue sky, gray clouds. You're gonna wanna grab a seat and soak it all in. . A long 2hr drive from Cooke City (Yellowstone's NE entrance) to Red Lodge, MT. . Tip: drive slowly. Lotta sharp switchbacks and cars coming the other way. - Virtually no infrastucture up there. Keep your wits about you. . Note: typically closes during winter. Enjoy while it's still summer. read more

We had the best day in the Beartooths!! This was my first time here and I hope not my last!! Wow God's beauty at every turn. There are plenty of lakes to stop and fish at, we ate lunch right by one of them. Also quite a few waterfalls that are visible right off the road or with a short walk. We also spotted a black bear as we headed home which was the hilight of the day!! read more

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We try to make a point of driving Beartooth anytime were in the area. We enjoy the drive, the hikes, the stops & like to see what's changed/ compare to past visits/ seasons. This visit was the end on June, 52° at 2pm at the summit, & 91° at our startup. It was breezy and traffic was lighter than usual. Cloudy skies made for more interesting pics & I do wish we'd had more time to spend playing with the cameras today. We may make a trip out next week for that, or perhaps wait out fall... gotta be careful tho, snow closes the pass unpredictably! read more

Beartooth Highway - Balmy 52 degrees this late June afternoon - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Red Lodge, Montana

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We deliberately stayed in Red Lodge, Montana, so that we would be able to drive the Beartooth on our way into Yellowstone. The week we were in town, every day was in the mid 90s temperature wise. Beartooth has a significant change in elevation, so as you drive, the temperature continues to drop. When we hit the Summit, it was actually quite chilly! This drive is amazing - there is something new to see around every bend! You can definitely see why they close it during the winter, as it can be very nerve-racking at times, but it was worth every minute of the drive. Absolutely make sure you do it at least once in your lifetime! read more

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Three nights at the Parkside Campground. We had a great campsite with access to Rock Creek. A very deep lot (#18) enough room to park a little cat, a full sized truck and a small teardrop camper. Day 3 we did a hike to Losecamp Lake a little past Houser. Beautiful views of the Beartooth. Highly recommend read more

Excellent spot to view the entire Beartooth plateau and surrounding ranges. It is worth the drive on the bumpy gravel road to take in the views! read more

Beartooth Highway - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Red Lodge, Montana

A motorcycle riders dream road. With Yellowstone as it's destination go early and bring snacks and water

Slight chance of whisps of snow... Montana Department of Transportation- "Close the Beartooth Highway!" Alas, I tried to drive the Beartooth Highway in early October, and the MtDoT closed it before I could get there. Things looked fine down in the lower elevations. Sure, I couldn't actually see the highway, because of the clouds. But I could drive it! Yea, they said it got 4-10" of snow at the hotel located near the start of the highway. Wyoming had it open, but it was closed at the Montana state line. Derp. They were nice enough to put a sign on the side of the highway with a big X on it. I wish I could've just kept going instead of listening to that little voice in my head that says, "Turn around- don't try to drive a closed mountain highway." Gah! read more

This is the most amazing drive I have ever been on. The views are breathtaking and spectacular . If you're headed to yellowstone, it is a must see. read more

Beartooth Highway is known as one of the most scenic drives in the United States. For me...it was good...but I've witnessed better. Two other roads that impressed me more were Million Dollar Highway from Silverton to Ouray in Colorado...and the primary driving road through Glacier National Park known as Going to the Sun Road. Still, Beartooth Highway was a pleasant exploration regardless. Beartooth Highway is a 68 mile road (known as Highway 212) going from Red Lodge, Montana to Cooke City - Silver Gate. I spent the whole day driving this road...stopping for roadside photos and hiking some short trails from high altitude vistas among snow-capped peaks and bright blue alpine lakes. I made this drive along my cross country summer road trip. I visited in August and had beautiful weather. What I'd like to point out...what I realized was after driving this 68 mile "All - American Road" leaving me off in Cooke City - Silver Gate...I then had no choice but to enter Yellowstone National Park. Even though stopping in Yellowstone wasn't on my itinerary...I drove an extra 57 miles through Yellowstone to exit the park in Gardiner, Montana. For those who may be visiting Yellowstone from the west entrance...driving Beartooth Highway is an added bonus. Although when I was forced to go through Yellowstone, it was late in the day and fortunately there wasn't a Park Ranger at the entrance gate. I luckily entered without paying the $35 fee. Best of all...as I drove through the Tower Junction section of Yellowstone, I stumbled upon a huge herd of buffalo grazing alongside the road. Although I sat in traffic in Yellowstone...it was worth it. Who doesn't enjoy seeing bison roaming around in their natural habitats! So...I got a quick spontaneous 2nd visit to Yellowstone while driving Beartooth Highway. Extra info about Beartooth Highway... - Red Lodge, Montana is a charming, historic town. On the town's main street, there were Old West-style saloons, restaurants, boutiques, art galleries and a grocery store. I spent a few hours here just walking around and window shopping. - Cooke City - Silver Gate was also an authentic western outpost...but didn't offer as many amenities as Red Lodge. Leaving Red Lodge and driving Highway 212...the road sort of snaked up the mountainside in a series of tight switchbacks up every corner. For the first 20 miles of Beartooth Highway there were random pullouts for picture taking. 21 miles into the drive, I arrived at Rock Creek Vista Point. This was a big parking lot area where lots of tourists stopped for breaks to picnic, use the restrooms and appreciate the surroundings. There's also a short path here taking you to an overlook that was quite scenic. This Rock Creek Vista was 9190 feet in elevation. Btw, along this walk there were friendly chipmunks begging you for food. Continuing...I had read that you cross the 45th Parallel. This 45th Parallel is the exact halfway point between the North Pole and the Equator. Though...I didn't see any signs for this or any significant viewpoint for it as well. But...when I drove through Yellowstone on my way to Gardiner, Montana...I did find this roadside sign. Not sure why it got mentioned in my research here along Beartooth Highway. Eventually...there were more opportunities to pull off the road and view alpine meadows, sparkling lakes all among Northern Rocky Mountains. I stopped more than a few times to walk around and explore. Bear's Tooth...this sight was mentioned in my research notes also but I didn't see any Bear's Tooth! For those who discover it...it's a "near-perfectly carved pyramid rising up between the granite mountains". Too bad, I never stumbled upon it. Beartooth Pass Summit was a fun stopping point. There was a cool sign mentioning I was 10,947 feet high in elevation. Here there's parking and moments to step out into the crisp mountain air and hike across a windswept plateau. Coming down the mountainside...I arrived at The Top of The World Store. Here's another good pit-stop for souvenirs, snacks, ice cream, stretching your legs and picnic tables. This World Store was a charming little building and the only shop on 68 mile Beartooth Highway. It's located 38 miles into the drive from Red Lodge and 25 miles away from Cooke City. Top of The World Store is actually located in Wyoming before eventually heading back into Montana. It's open Monday - Saturday from 8am - 7pm and Sundays 9am - 6pm. Don't forget top take a picture of the road sign from this quaint little stop. Just down the road from Top of The World Store is Beartooth Lake, a pretty lake just off the road worthy of admiring and picture taking. Finally, the last 25 miles of Beartooth Highway really didn't offer much. I genuinely can't recall any moments worthy of stopping for...it felt like a standard drive into Cooke City - Silver Gate. Overall, Beartooth Highway was a fine 4 star day trip. I've witnessed prettier roads in the USA, but still nice to visit here. read more

One of if not the most beautiful ride I have ever experienced. The views were incredible. Every turn brought out something new and unique.

The first official stop along the Beartooth Highway as you head south out of Red Lodge, is Rock Creek Vista point. It's only a short drive farther to the Wyoming / Montana border, the 45th parallel and the Top of the World and West Summit stops with an elevation of approximately 10,500 feet. The view is spectacular. In the hurry to get there or see where else the Beartooth might lead, don't sell yourself short because the view here is no less impressive. It's a small hike up a paved path to the viewing point where you can see the seven -plus miles of winding, switchback two-lane road you traversed to get here from Red Lodge and the valley. The slow-moving cars on the road you just exited to get here look like toy cars. As you walk toward the peak of the viewing area, you'll be followed, greeted, and shamelessly begged for food by the biggest chipmunks I've ever seen. They're squirrel sized. I don't know, though, maybe they are squirrels but with chipmunk stripes. It's difficult to stay focused on the view when you're watching these seemingly-brave striped rodents running along the rocks on the side of the wall of the outlook. But spare them a glance, if you must, and then turn your gaze to the incredible views. At around 9200' elevation, the clouds are almost touchable, but watching the shadows they create on the mountains is fascinating. If it weren't for that road, the other tourists, and the darting chipmunks, it would seem as though you were already at the top of the world and all alone. If you stop at Rock Creek, there are restrooms, but no running water. Have a wet towel or a disinfectant towel particularly if you decide to hand-feed the chipmunks that sometimes will sit on your hand or arm. There are no services here - no vending machines, no telephones and no cell signals, either. Take a break, take a look, take a deep breath, take a picture, and take home some memories. read more

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The Beartooth Highway drive was recommended to us by the owner of the Airbnb we stayed. I have travelled extensively during my 20 years in the Air Force and I have seen a lot, that being said, I have never seen anything like this. Absolutely breathtaking. This drive is an absolute must, but just know it's open from Memorial Day til October only. read more

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I will see you right now and yes it is scary, only if you don't slow down!!! The road is a typical road two way traffic never a 1 lane Road. It is steep there are lots of switchbacks it is scary and it is probably the most beautiful landscape you have seen. Don't let your fears stop you from an opportunity that you will probably get a few times in your life. There may be in wildlife on the way and you will meet other cars all the more reason to slow down and enjoy the scenery. One other thing there is no cell service! If you break down you're on your own!!!! Bring food water blankets anything you might need to accidentally spend the night it is rugged gods country and if you're not prepared it will teach you a damn good lesson! read more

Part of the fun of a road trip is the element of surprise. And, boy, was I surprised when the shortest route suggested by Google Maps between Yellowstone and Bismarck, ND, included the following: Ascending to an altitude of almost 11,000 feet Stunning, spectacular views of incredibly gorgeous mountains Death-defying drops off endless hairpin turns Encountering 20-feet snowdrifts in July Climbing up past the tree line to tundra Descending from the same Little did we know that we were on a road that is known both as the most beautiful scenic byway in the USA *and* one of the most dangerous. That's Beartooth Highway. And it's even more fun when you don't know you're on it till it's over. Trust me! Tips: 1) Don't always trust Google Maps. Or your GPS. This "short-cut" was anything but. 2) Check the weather before you drive. The pass was shut down in June due to snow. 3)CHECK YOUR BRAKES! 4)RECHECK YOUR BRAKES! I was too anxious to stop and take a picture. Designate a photographer before you go. Which brings me to my last tip: 5) Enjoy. It may be the most amazing road trip you ever take (at least until you drive up to prepare your base camp for Everest). read more

Pictures just don't do it ANY justice... This "shortcut" our GPS have us was anything but bc of the constant stop/go of picture taking and hairy turns.... Snow in July! Did I mention spectacular views? I've been through the Rockies and this is even better! read more

Yes, this is a beautiful road, running from the Northeast entrance/exit of Yellowstone to Red Lodge. Yes, it has stunning high-elevation vistas. But it scared the heck out of me! We spent longer than we planned in wonderful Yellowstone National Park, so it was only about an hour from sunset when we set out in mid-June to drive the 60 or so miles of the Beartooth. As others have stated, the elevation ranges up to around 11,000 feet. You go up and up and up, and if it went any higher some people would have altitude sickness. We drove it on June 13, and even then there was a good deal of snow on the sides of the road at the higher elevations. Snow plows were still parked beside the road. And the curves! Many sections have speed limits of 30, 20 or even 15 miles per hour, and for good reason. One slight mistake, and you could plunge thousands of feet. As darkness came on, we didn't know what to expect. Would a rockfall block the roadway? The temperature dropped to near freezing, and we could imagine slick spots if it rained or snowed. We saw only about six other vehicles on the road in the hour and a half or longer that it took us to drive it. At places, rocks were on the road, and there were constant warnings about falling rocks. Thankfully, we got through the roughest part before full darkness set in. I recommend that if you drive it, you do so in full daylight and preferably in high summer. It's beautiful, but it's a little frightening, and I'm from an area where there are the highest mountains in Eastern America, so I am used to winding mountain roads, but nothing like this. read more

While I definitely wouldn't call this "the most scenic road in America" as some have done, it is definitely worth the drive if you have the time to do it. Be warned, the climb is steep and there are no services from just outside of Yellowstone to Red Lodge. Fill up before you go! The landscape is really amazing, but don't get crazy on the curves. They can be slick and send you plummeting to your doom! They only real downside to this is that it is kind of going in the wrong direction for most people's trips. We decided to cut through the upper corner of Yellowstone to take this drive on our way back from Glacier NP to central Wyoming, and it added well over 3 hours onto the trip. It's great, just plan accordingly. read more

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Don't come here. Seriously, there's nothing to see. Go away! You have been warned Kidding. My favorite drive in my favorite place. Been coming here my whole life and it never gets old regardless of the number of times I visit. read more

We randomly decided to take a day and drive this road during our three week trip to Montana and Wyoming. I shudder to think that we almost didn't do this drive. It was AMAZING. AMAZING. Absolutely one of the highlights of our long trip. Worth taking the time, worth leaving Yellowstone, worth any amount of trouble or effort to do........ this drive was one of the best of my globe-trotting life. You won't see more lovely scenery anywhere. read more

We did it on our motorcycles and I have to say that it even beats the Million Dollar Highway in Colorado. It think it was a bit scary, not because of the severe drop-offs and no guardrails in places, but because it got windy that first day. In fact, it was so windy, I began to sing inside my helmet to calm myself down. (That's what I do.) I was floored by the beauty, though, and we did it again two days later on our way home. The second time, the weather was a bit better and I had the courage to look out over the cliffs a few times and not be so concerned about being blown off the side of the mountain... Just breathtaking!! read more

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The Beartooth Highway should not be missed! Incredible views and plenty of painting spots for artists. It's only open four months each year, so plan for a great summer adventure. read more

It is one of the most beautiful paths we have taken on our road trip from Chicago to Yellowstone!! While it is not for the faint of heart for the driver, the sight is absolutely breathtaking, literally and figuratively. It was quite windy in July with snow caps that stretched to 8-12 ft high. It was breezy but not freezing; there was a guy who was walking around shirtless after his hike back up the mountain. This path was a part of our journey, but I wished it was more of a destination, so we could have more time to enjoy its splendor. I would recommend taking your time through this area, not just because the speed limit is 20 miles an hour with steep cliffs on your sides, but more so to soak in the view and appreciate the beauty of Mother Nature. Don't worry if you missed one pull off area, because there are many others along the way. I look forward to taking my kids back here again soon!! read more

It's nice if you have tons of time and don't mind being behind slow drivers who are checking out the AMAZING scenery. On the other hand, if you need to be on the other side and just want to get there as soon as possible, you might experience some rare (for this area) road rage. read more

Wow! It has been 30 years since i have spent time on this magical place. Beautiful magnificent breathtaking. I was also happy to see people respect this land. Not one piece of litter on the ground and not one plastic bag floating in the wind. Yeah! read more

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The Beartooh Highway is a spectacular drive. If you start off from Cooke City MT - you may think it's ok, at first, since you're ascending through a wooded, rocky area - especially since you've most probably visited Yellowstone. However, once you start to gain altitude, you will realize that you are in for an amazing journey which eventually takes you over the highest elevation highway in the northern rockies - mountains, glaciers, pristine alpine and montane areas, mountain goats, picas, marmots, elk - it goes on and on. Closed during winter for obvious reasons. Ends up in Red Lodge which is a great litte community itself. read more

You'll never see more gorgeous views from this highway anywhere else on the planet but don't underestimate Mother Nature on Beartooth Mountain! Coming from Red Lodge on 6/17/10, I was driving up the highway heading back to Yellowstone. Getting close to the top, it was like the Twilight Zone - heavy snow, extreme wind, very, very low visibility and then white-out. My story is longer but I can't write it all here. Let's just say that the highway had to be closed and I nearly lost my life on that mountain and had to be rescued. My poor boyfriend looked like a snowman when he got out and came back in the car (my gawd, he even had an ice beard!) I'm not a mountain person and was not prepared for a snow blizzard and hazardous road conditions that changed instantly. I still can't believe this happened to us but it did and now I understand how people die in blizzards - so glad I lived to tell and write my story. read more

Wow! I made this a quick day trip on a day off while on assignment in Cody! It was August the weather perfect! I was suprised to see the snow on the higher peaks outside Cooke City. The road there was under construction but nothing my rental car couldn't handle. I made a loop down through Yellowstone and back into Cody. To try to describe the scenery in words would not do this road trip justice. read more

We just stumbled upon this drive after deciding to take the NE route out of Yellowstone toward Billings. Amazing sights all the way up, and at the crest, we wondered what would be on the other side, and as the stunning views of the canyon appeared we stopped to take it all in. We took some photographs, but pictures and movies could not capture the experience. read more

Very amazing. Wonderful scenery everywhere you look and beautiful snowcapped mountains. Love the chipmunks!

If you are a tourist or even someone local, take a ride on the Beartooth. Closes in the fall until the spring, it is one of the most scenic and beautiful highways in the world. Keep both hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Lots of places to pull over for photos. You will love it. read more

I can't tell you how lucky I am to live within 10 minutes of the pass. Should be on everyone's bucket list

Beautiful country and a beautiful drive make sure your cameras are charged and give yourself plenty of time it's not to be rushed there are plenty of places for personal time and restrooms my only suggestion would be make sure to have those little packages of tissues, just in case read more

Me, my wife and son drove from Cody, Wyoming by way of Red Lodge, Montana. We drove the Beartooth Highway and down thru Chief Joseph back to Cody. Hoooooooooooooly cow...this is the prettiest road in the world and since I am afraid of hieghts, the scariest. But it is aaallllllllllllll worth it ! read more

Worth every second of the drive! Be prepared to stop and take pictures of mountains, deer, lakes, and the big sky!!

Definitely recommend taking this scenic route via the NE entrance from Yellowstone. Make sure you give yourself at least a couple hours of daylight for safer travels and better views. read more

Last night my truck broke down on the Beartooth Pass. I had both of my boys and St Bernard. We spent a cold night in the truck as we had no cell service. When the sun came up I wrote some notes with my husband's number and Ronning's towing. I knew the Top of the World store wasn't too far so I started walking. I got there at 7:30, the store opened at 8, knowing that they owners also lived there I knocked on their door, hoping to get word to Ronnings Towing and Mike Martin as he had been working at the fire station in Billings. Bart, the owner opened the door, I asked if I could please make a phone call and he said No. I asked if there was a wifi password I could use to at least get emails and/or fb messages out. Again, he said no and slammed the door in my face. I then went and stood on the highway until I flagged down 2 different people going both directions , asking them the make the phone calls that I had indicated on my notes. They were great and 3 of the 4 people made the phone calls. Jerry Ronning arrived about 9:45! When we stopped at the Top of The World store I on the way back I saw Bart again and thanked him for not being any help at all, he just kept saying "how would you feel being woke up"! He was rude and a complete jerk....Food for thought, if you find yourself needing help on the pass, don't ask him! read more

Beartooth Highway - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Red Lodge, Montana

We accidentally found this highway and I will have to say it was the most beautiful drive I have ever taken. I was scared in the car and we have a motorcycle, there is no way I could do it on a bike. It was the highlight of our trip to Yellowstone and I would recommend anyone visiting Yellowstone not definitely take highway 212. Awesome read more