How to Road Trip the Beartooth Highway in Montana

The Beartooth Highway, officially designated as U.S. Route 212, is one of the most breathtaking and iconic road trips in the United States. Stretching 68 miles between Red Lodge, Montana, and Cooke City, Montana (just outside Yellowstone National Parks northeast entrance), this alpine roadway climbs to elevations over 10,000 feet, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, glacial valleys, alpine lakes, and untouched wilderness. Designated a National Scenic Byway and one of the Top 10 Drives in America by National Geographic, the Beartooth Highway delivers an unforgettable driving experience that combines natural grandeur with engineering marvels. For travelers seeking solitude, awe-inspiring landscapes, and a true sense of adventure, this route is unmatched. Whether youre a seasoned road tripper or a first-time visitor to the Northern Rockies, mastering how to road trip the Beartooth Highway requires preparation, awareness, and respect for the environment. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to plan, execute, and enjoy this legendary journey with confidence.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Your Route and Timing

The Beartooth Highway is not a year-round road. It typically opens in late May or early June and closes by late October, depending on snowfall and road conditions. The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) monitors snow removal and avalanche risks, so always check their official website or call ahead before departure. The route runs from Red Lodge, Montana, to Cooke City, Montana with no gas stations, cell service, or major facilities between the two endpoints. Plan your trip during daylight hours only, as the road is narrow, winding, and lacks guardrails in many sections. Aim to start early ideally by 7:00 a.m. to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in the high alpine environment.

Use GPS coordinates to bookmark key waypoints: Red Lodge (45.2542 N, 109.2487 W), Beartooth Pass (50,000 ft elevation at 45.3844 N, 109.2218 W), and Cooke City (45.2174 N, 110.2273 W). While Google Maps may show the route, it doesnt always reflect real-time closures or seasonal restrictions. Download offline maps using Gaia GPS or AllTrails for backup navigation.

2. Choose the Right Vehicle

While passenger cars can handle the Beartooth Highway, a vehicle with good ground clearance, reliable brakes, and a strong engine is strongly recommended. The road features steep grades up to 10% in places and long descents that can overheat brakes if not managed properly. Avoid towing trailers, RVs, or large vehicles; they are not permitted beyond the Red Lodge entrance due to narrow switchbacks and limited pullouts. A compact SUV or sedan with all-season tires is ideal. Ensure your tires are properly inflated and have adequate tread depth. Carry a spare tire, jack, and tire repair kit there are no service stations for over 60 miles.

Check your vehicles coolant levels, brake fluid, and battery condition before departure. High altitudes can strain engines, and sudden temperature drops can affect performance. If youre renting a car, confirm with the rental company that driving on the Beartooth Highway is permitted under your agreement.

3. Pack Essential Gear

Even in summer, temperatures at the summit can drop below 40F (4C), and weather can change within minutes. Pack layers: moisture-wicking base layers, a fleece or down jacket, a waterproof shell, gloves, and a hat. Bring sunglasses and sunscreen UV exposure at 10,000+ feet is intense. A reusable water bottle (minimum 1 liter per person) and high-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, and dried fruit are critical. You wont find food or drink vendors between Red Lodge and Cooke City.

Include a first-aid kit, flashlight with extra batteries, emergency blanket, and a portable phone charger. Cell service is nonexistent for most of the route. Consider bringing a satellite communicator like a Garmin inReach for emergency signaling. Dont forget your camera the photo opportunities are endless.

4. Know the Key Stops and Attractions

There are over a dozen designated pullouts and viewpoints along the Beartooth Highway. Dont rush. Plan to spend at least 34 hours driving the route, with additional time for stops. Key highlights include:

• Red Lodge Entrance: Start here with a coffee or breakfast at one of the local cafes. The town is a historic mining community with charming architecture and art galleries.
• Beartooth Lake: A serene alpine lake at 9,800 feet, perfect for a short walk and wildlife spotting. Look for moose, elk, and marmots.
• Beartooth Pass Summit (10,947 ft): The highest point on the highway. The overlook here offers 360-degree views of the Absaroka and Beartooth mountain ranges. Take your time here its the most photographed spot on the route.
• Top of the World Store: A small gift shop and rest stop near the summit with snacks, souvenirs, and restrooms. Its the only commercial facility on the highway.
• Rock Creek Overlook: Offers dramatic views of the valley below and is a great spot for photography.
• Cooke City Exit: Arrive here with enough daylight to explore the historic mining town or continue into Yellowstone National Park via the Northeast Entrance.

Each pullout has interpretive signs explaining geology, ecology, and history. Take time to read them they enhance the experience significantly.

5. Drive with Caution and Courtesy

The Beartooth Highway is narrow, with no shoulders in many sections. There are no guardrails along steep drop-offs, and blind curves are common. Drive slowly the posted speed limit is 45 mph, but 3035 mph is safer and more enjoyable. Use your headlights, even in daylight its required by law and improves visibility in fog or mist.

Yield to uphill traffic when possible. On steep grades, vehicles climbing have the right of way. If you encounter a large vehicle or RV coming toward you, pull over to the widest part of the shoulder and stop. Never attempt to pass on curves or near summits. Be patient the road is shared with cyclists, motorcyclists, and tourists taking their time.

Watch for wildlife. Elk, bighorn sheep, and bears are frequently seen near the road, especially at dawn and dusk. Never stop in the middle of the roadway. Use designated pullouts. If you see an animal, slow down and observe from a distance.

6. Connect with Yellowstone National Park

The Beartooth Highway ends at Cooke City, which borders the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Many travelers use this route as a scenic approach to Yellowstone. If you plan to enter the park, ensure you have a valid entrance pass. The Northeast Entrance is open year-round, but road conditions beyond Cooke City into the park may be snow-covered or restricted in early season. Check Yellowstones official website for current conditions.

Consider staying overnight in Cooke City or nearby Silver Gate. Both towns offer rustic lodging, restaurants, and outdoor gear shops. If youre continuing into Yellowstone, plan your first nights stay at one of the parks lodges they book up months in advance.

7. Exit and Return Options

Most travelers drive the Beartooth Highway as a one-way loop, starting in Red Lodge and ending in Cooke City. To return, you can drive back the same way, or take a longer route via US-212 to I-90 and then US-89 to re-enter Montana. Alternatively, fly out of Billings or Bozeman after your trip.

If youre driving a rental car, confirm whether one-way drop-off fees apply. Some companies charge significant fees for returning a vehicle in a different state or city. Planning a round-trip route may be more cost-effective.

Best Practices

1. Respect the Environment

The Beartooth Highway traverses the Beartooth Wilderness Area and the Custer Gallatin National Forest. This is protected land with fragile ecosystems. Stay on designated trails and pullouts. Do not litter, disturb wildlife, or remove plants or rocks. Pack out everything you bring in including food wrappers and biodegradable items like apple cores. Leave no trace principles are not optional here; theyre essential to preserving the landscape for future visitors.

2. Acclimate to Altitude

Altitude sickness can affect anyone, even fit individuals. Red Lodge sits at 6,600 feet; the summit exceeds 10,900 feet. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. To prevent altitude sickness:

• Drink plenty of water before and during the drive.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine the day before and during your trip.
• Take breaks at lower elevations if you feel unwell.
• Consider taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen if youre prone to headaches.

Children and older adults are more susceptible. Monitor everyone in your vehicle for signs of discomfort.

3. Prepare for Weather Extremes

Summer temperatures can swing from 75F in Red Lodge to 45F at the summit. Thunderstorms develop rapidly after noon. Lightning is a serious risk at high elevations. If you hear thunder or see dark clouds forming, pull over immediately in a safe, open area away from trees and metal objects. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap before continuing.

In early or late season, snow can fall even in July. Carry tire chains if traveling before mid-June or after mid-September. Even if the road is open, ice patches can form in shaded areas.

4. Avoid Peak Crowds

July and August are the busiest months. Weekends see heavy traffic, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. For a quieter, more immersive experience, travel on a weekday in late June or early September. The colors of the wildflowers are still vibrant, the crowds are thinner, and the air is clearer.

5. Fuel Up and Fill Water Before You Go

There are no gas stations between Red Lodge and Cooke City. Fill your tank completely in Red Lodge. Bring extra water at least one gallon per person. The dry mountain air dehydrates you faster than you realize. Avoid relying on vending machines at the Top of the World Store they may be out of stock.

6. Share Your Itinerary

Before you leave, tell a friend or family member your planned route, departure time, and expected arrival. If you dont check in within 24 hours, they should know to alert authorities. Cell service is unreliable, so this simple step can make a big difference in an emergency.

7. Document Your Journey Responsibly

Photography is encouraged, but never put yourself or others at risk for a photo. Do not climb on rock ledges or stand on guardrails. Avoid using drones they are prohibited in national forests and wilderness areas without special permits. Respect the quiet of the mountains. Turn off music when stopped to enjoy the natural sounds wind, birds, and distant streams.

Tools and Resources

1. Official Websites

Reliable, up-to-date information is critical. Bookmark these official sources:

• Montana Department of Transportation (MDT): mdt.mt.gov for real-time road closures, snow removal updates, and webcam views.
• USDA Forest Service Custer Gallatin National Forest: fs.usda.gov/custer for trail conditions, wildlife alerts, and fire restrictions.
• Yellowstone National Park: nps.gov/yell for entrance requirements and park road conditions beyond Cooke City.

2. Mobile Apps

Download these apps before your trip:

• Gaia GPS: Offers offline topographic maps, elevation profiles, and trail overlays. Essential for navigation without service.
• AllTrails: Lists nearby hiking trails with user reviews and difficulty ratings. Great for planning short walks at pullouts.
• Weather Underground: Provides hyperlocal forecasts for Red Lodge, Beartooth Pass, and Cooke City. Use the minute-by-minute radar feature.
• GasBuddy: Locate the last gas stations in Red Lodge and the next ones in Cooke City or Livingston.

3. Printed Materials

While digital tools are helpful, carry a physical map. The Beartooth Highway Visitor Guide by the Red Lodge Chamber of Commerce is available at local visitor centers. It includes elevation charts, historical facts, and wildlife viewing tips. Also, bring a National Geographic Topographic Map of the Beartooth Mountains (Scale 1:100,000) for detailed terrain analysis.

4. Recommended Reading

Enhance your trip with context:

• Beartooth Country: A Natural History by John W. Hagerman explores the geology and ecology of the region.
• The Beartooth Highway: A Journey Through Time by Roberta L. Hall chronicles the construction and cultural history of the road.
• Wildlife of the Northern Rockies by David J. Meltzer helps identify animals youll encounter along the route.

5. Photography Gear

For the best shots:

• A wide-angle lens (1635mm) captures sweeping mountain vistas.
• A polarizing filter reduces glare on snow and water.
• A tripod is useful for sunrise and sunset shots at Beartooth Pass.
• Bring extra memory cards and batteries cold temperatures drain power quickly.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Solo Adventurer

Emily, a 32-year-old photographer from Portland, Oregon, drove the Beartooth Highway alone in early September. She left Red Lodge at 6:30 a.m., stopped at every overlook, and spent two hours at the summit waiting for the morning light to hit the peaks. She captured over 300 images, including a rare shot of a grizzly bear crossing a meadow at 9,200 feet. Emily says, The silence up there is unlike anything Ive ever experienced. I didnt hear a single engine for 45 minutes. It felt like the mountains were breathing. She stayed overnight in Cooke City and entered Yellowstone the next morning, completing a 5-day road trip through Montana and Wyoming.

Example 2: The Family Trip

The Reynolds family parents and two children aged 8 and 11 took the Beartooth Highway as part of a summer vacation. They packed picnic lunches, played spot the wildlife bingo cards, and let the kids help navigate using the printed map. They stopped every 15 minutes for bathroom breaks and snacks. The children were fascinated by the interpretive signs about glaciers and rock formations. They asked more questions about geology than they ever did in school, said their mother. They finished the drive by 3 p.m., avoiding afternoon storms, and stayed at a cabin near the Yellowstone entrance.

Example 3: The Motorcycle Enthusiast

James, a retired mechanic from Colorado, rode his Harley-Davidson across the Beartooth Highway in July. He says, The road is a masterpiece for riders every curve is intentional, every climb rewarding. But its not for the reckless. You have to respect the altitude, the wind, and the traffic. He wore full protective gear, carried a tire repair kit, and stopped at the Top of the World Store to chat with the owner, who had been working there for 37 years. James posted his ride on YouTube, and his video now has over 200,000 views, becoming a reference for other riders planning the route.

Example 4: The Off-Season Explorer

In June, a group of university geology students took a field trip on the Beartooth Highway as part of a course on alpine landscapes. They collected rock samples (with permits), documented glacial moraines, and interviewed MDT workers about road maintenance challenges. Their professor required them to write a field journal. One student wrote, The highway isnt just a road its a window into Earths history. The layers of rock exposed along the cliffs tell a story 1.7 billion years old. Their research paper was later published in a regional geology journal.

FAQs

Is the Beartooth Highway open year-round?

No. The highway typically opens between late May and early June and closes by late October due to heavy snowfall and avalanche danger. Always verify current conditions with the Montana Department of Transportation before departure.

Can I drive an RV on the Beartooth Highway?

RVs and trailers are not permitted beyond Red Lodge. The road is too narrow, with steep grades and sharp curves that make large vehicles unsafe. Only passenger vehicles and motorcycles are allowed.

Are there gas stations on the Beartooth Highway?

No. The last gas station is in Red Lodge. The next one is in Cooke City, approximately 68 miles away. Fill up completely before starting your drive.

Do I need a permit to drive the Beartooth Highway?

No permit is required to drive the highway. However, if you plan to enter Yellowstone National Park afterward, youll need a park entrance pass.

Is cell service available on the Beartooth Highway?

Cell service is extremely limited or nonexistent along most of the route. Rely on offline maps and GPS devices. Consider a satellite communicator for emergencies.

What wildlife might I see?

You may encounter elk, bighorn sheep, marmots, pikas, moose, black bears, and occasionally grizzly bears. Always observe from a distance. Never feed or approach animals.

How long does it take to drive the Beartooth Highway?

Without stops, the drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. With photo stops, wildlife viewing, and short hikes, plan for 3 to 4 hours. Allow extra time if weather conditions are poor.

Are there restrooms on the Beartooth Highway?

Yes. Restrooms are available at the Top of the World Store near the summit and at the Red Lodge and Cooke City entrances. There are no facilities between these points.

Can I bike the Beartooth Highway?

Yes. Many cyclists ride the highway, but its extremely challenging due to elevation gain (over 5,000 feet) and steep grades. Only experienced riders should attempt it. Bikers must yield to vehicles and wear helmets. Start early to avoid afternoon heat and thunderstorms.

Whats the best time of day to drive?

Early morning (6:008:00 a.m.) is ideal. Youll avoid crowds, enjoy the clearest visibility, and reduce the risk of afternoon storms. Sunset views from Beartooth Pass are stunning, but driving in the dark is not recommended.

Can children handle the altitude?

Most children adapt well, but monitor them for signs of altitude sickness: irritability, nausea, fatigue, or rapid breathing. Take frequent breaks, hydrate often, and avoid strenuous activity at the summit.

Is the Beartooth Highway dangerous?

It can be, if not approached with caution. The road is narrow, steep, and exposed. Weather changes rapidly. Drivers who respect the conditions, drive slowly, and stay alert have an excellent safety record. Always prioritize safety over speed.

Where can I stay near the Beartooth Highway?

Red Lodge offers hotels, motels, and cabins. Cooke City and nearby Silver Gate have rustic lodges and vacation rentals. For those continuing to Yellowstone, lodging inside the park must be booked months in advance.

Conclusion

The Beartooth Highway is more than a road its a pilgrimage through some of the most dramatic, untouched landscapes in North America. Its a journey that demands preparation, rewards patience, and leaves a lasting impression on everyone who completes it. Whether youre drawn by the sweeping vistas, the challenge of high-altitude driving, or the quiet majesty of the alpine wilderness, this route offers a rare blend of natural wonder and human ingenuity.

By following the steps outlined in this guide from vehicle preparation and timing your departure to respecting the environment and understanding the risks you transform a simple drive into a meaningful, memorable adventure. The Beartooth Highway doesnt just take you from point A to point B; it changes how you see the world. The mountains dont rush. Neither should you.

As you crest Beartooth Pass and gaze across the endless peaks, youll understand why this road has inspired poets, scientists, and travelers for over a century. Drive slowly. Breathe deeply. And carry the silence of the Beartooth with you long after youve left the pavement behind.