Traversing the Beartooth Highway is more than just a drive; it is an immersion into the high alpine wilderness. This three-day itinerary takes you from the charming mountain town of Red Lodge, over the highest pass in the Northern Rockies, and down into the remote outpost of Cooke City. Prepare for dramatic elevation changes, stunning vistas, and plenty of opportunities to explore the wild heart of Montana and Wyoming.
Day 1: Red Lodge and the Ascent
Start your journey in the historic town of Red Lodge, Montana. After grabbing a hearty breakfast at a local cafe, spend your morning exploring the downtown shops. Before heading up the mountain, stop by the Forest Service ranger station to check on current road conditions and trail status. By mid-morning, begin your ascent on Highway 212. The first major milestone is the Rock Creek Vista Point, where you can look back down the valley at the impressive switchbacks you have conquered.
Continue climbing toward the summit, making sure to stop at the various pullouts for photos of the Absaroka Range. As you reach the high plateau, the landscape shifts from thick forest to windswept tundra. Spend your afternoon walking the short trails near the summit to acclimate to the altitude. For your first night, consider camping at one of the Forest Service campgrounds near the base of the switchbacks or staying in one of the historic lodges in Red Lodge.
Day 2: The High Plateau and Alpine Lakes
On your second day, focus on the 'Top of the World.' This section of the highway stays above 9,000 feet for miles. Start with a visit to the Top of the World Store for supplies and a bit of local history. From here, head to Beartooth Lake for a morning of exploration. You can hike the trail around the lake or simply enjoy a picnic with a view of the iconic Beartooth Butte. The reflection of the mountains in the still morning water is a sight you won't soon forget.
In the afternoon, head to Island Lake and consider a short hike into the backcountry. The trails here are relatively flat compared to the climb up the pass, but the altitude still makes for a good workout. Watch for marmots and mountain goats along the rocky ridges. As evening approaches, watch the sunset from one of the western-facing overlooks, where the light hits the granite peaks in a spectacular display of orange and pink before heading toward your evening accommodation.
Day 3: The Descent to Cooke City
The final leg of your journey takes you down the western side of the pass toward the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. This section of the road offers a different perspective, with views looking into the deep canyons and toward the jagged peaks of the Silver Gate area. Stop at the Clay Butte Lookout for a panoramic view that extends deep into the Wyoming wilderness. The descent is steep, so use your lower gears to save your brakes.
Reach the twin towns of Cooke City and Silver Gate by lunchtime. These remote communities are surrounded by national forest and offer a true 'end of the road' feel. Spend your afternoon exploring the local shops or taking a short hike to a nearby waterfall. From here, you are perfectly positioned to enter Yellowstoneâs Lamar Valley, famous for its wolf and grizzly sightings. This marks the end of the Beartooth Highway itself, but it serves as a magnificent gateway to further adventures in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
Travel Logistics and Gateway Cities
The closest major airport for this itinerary is Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) in Montana, which is roughly a 60-mile drive from Red Lodge. Alternatively, you could fly into Bozeman (BZN) and approach from the west, though the Red Lodge start is more traditional for the full highway experience. Renting a vehicle with a reliable engine is recommended, as the climb is steep and sustained. Expect to spend a significant amount on fuel, as mountain driving reduces efficiency.
While there are no entry fees for the highway, you should budget for park passes if you plan to enter Yellowstone. Daily budgets can vary widely; camping is an affordable way to stay, while boutique lodges in Red Lodge or Cooke City represent a higher price point. Always ensure you have a full tank of gas before leaving either Red Lodge or Cooke City, as there are no service stations on the 68-mile stretch across the pass itself.
Essential Tips for the Road
Safety and preparation are paramount on the Beartooth. Even in the height of summer, you should carry a winter coat, gloves, and a hat in your vehicle. Altitude sickness can affect anyone, so stay hydrated and avoid overexertion on your first day. If you feel dizzy or have a headache, the best cure is descending to a lower elevation. Keep your camera ready, but always use the designated pullouts rather than stopping in the middle of the road.
Cell service is virtually non-existent for most of the drive. Download offline maps and have a physical map as a backup. Check the official National Park Service and state Department of Transportation websites for the most current information on closures. The road is typically open from the Friday of Memorial Day weekend through mid-October, but these dates are never guaranteed. By following this itinerary and staying flexible, you will experience one of the most magnificent landscapes in North America.
More ways to book Beartooth Highway
Illustrative · Diego AngelSprinter Adventure Van
Small enough to park at the trailhead, comfy enough to sleep in.
$189/day (estimate)
Direct link · RVshare