The Beartooth Highway (US-212), widely regarded as one of the most scenic roads in North America, runs 68 miles from Red Lodge, Montana, to Cooke City at the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park, climbing to a summit of 10,947 feet at Beartooth Pass. From Billings, Montana's largest city, Red Lodge lies 60 miles south on US-212 — approximately a one-hour drive through rolling rangeland and the Clarks Fork valley. The highway itself is a distinct experience from any single destination: 29 consecutive switchbacks rise through subalpine forest and emerge onto a high plateau scattered with glacial lakes, snowfields that persist well into July, and tundra meadows alive with wildflowers and marmots. Summit elevation means temperatures at Beartooth Pass can be 30°F colder than Red Lodge even in midsummer; wind is a constant factor. The full out-and-back drive from Red Lodge to Cooke City and back takes four to six hours including stops, making an early start from Billings — by 7 a.m. — necessary for a comfortable return before dark. A popular itinerary combines the scenic drive with time in Red Lodge itself: the town's historic Broadway Avenue has the Carbon County Arts Guild, craft breweries including Red Lodge Ales, and independent restaurants serving hearty ranch-style meals. Rock Creek Vista Point, about 13 miles above Red Lodge, provides a panoramic view back over the Clarks Fork valley and is reached via a short walk from the roadside pullout. The Top of the World Store near the pass summit sells fuel, snacks, and fishing licenses at one of the highest gas stations in Montana. Wildflower bloom peaks in late June and July at summit elevations. The highway is typically open from late May through mid-October, with exact dates depending on annual snowpack; road status is available at 511.mt.gov.
How to get there
- Mode
- Car
Location
Broadway Ave, Red Lodge, MT 59068 (southern terminus)
45.1836, -109.2458 View on map
Highlights
- Drive 29 hairpin switchbacks rising 5,000 feet from Red Lodge to the 10,947-foot Beartooth Pass summit
- Stop at Rock Creek Vista Point for a panoramic view back over the Clarks Fork valley and Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness
- Walk tundra meadows and wildflower fields above treeline in late June and July near the pass summit
- Explore historic Broadway Avenue in Red Lodge for craft beer, Western heritage, and ranch-style dining before the ascent
- Spot marmots, mountain goats, and occasional grizzly bears in the high alpine zones near the pass
Tips for visiting
- Check road status at 511.mt.gov before departure — Beartooth Pass can close due to snow as late as June or as early as September
- Fill the gas tank in Red Lodge before ascending; the Top of the World Store at the summit offers limited fuel at premium prices
- Carry warm layers and rain gear even in summer — summit temperatures can drop below freezing and afternoon storms develop quickly
- Avoid driving the switchbacks in darkness; evening light fades fast at altitude and the curves demand full concentration
- Weekday visits are noticeably quieter than weekends, when motorcyclists and recreational vehicles are most numerous on the road
When to visit
Late June through mid-September is the reliable open window; July offers peak wildflower bloom at altitude with the best chance of a fully snow-free pass. Weekday visits avoid the heaviest motorcycle and recreational vehicle traffic on the switchbacks.
Accessibility
The Beartooth Highway is a paved scenic byway fully accessible by private vehicle. Rock Creek Vista Point has a short gravel path to the main viewpoint that may be challenging for some mobility devices. Visitors with limited mobility can enjoy most of the scenery without leaving the vehicle; the pass summit rest area has basic facilities.
Frequently asked questions
When does the Beartooth Highway open and close each year?
The road typically opens in late May or early June and closes by mid-October, with both dates depending on annual snowfall. Current status is available at 511.mt.gov before departure.
Is the highway suitable for RVs and large vehicles?
Passenger vehicles and most RVs handle the road well. The switchbacks have wide turning radii, but vehicles over 35 feet should check current conditions. Motorcycles and smaller vehicles have the easiest time navigating the curves.
Can the Beartooth Highway day trip be combined with Yellowstone?
Yes — the highway ends at Cooke City adjacent to Yellowstone's Northeast Entrance. Combining both in one day from Billings requires an extremely early start and yields a 12-plus-hour day; most visitors choose one or the other.
Is there an entrance fee for driving the Beartooth Highway?
No fee is charged for driving the highway itself. If continuing into Yellowstone via the Northeast Entrance, the standard national park vehicle fee of $35 for 7 days applies.