Pilot Peak
Often referred to as the “Most Beautiful Drive in America” the Beartooth Highway is a scenic road winding through the Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains in Montana and Wyoming ending at the North Entrance to Yellowstone National Park.
The Beartooth Highway opened June 14th 1936
In August 1872, the pass was crossed by Civil War General Phillip Sheridan and 120 men returning inspection tour of Yellowstone National Park. Rather than take the long detour down the Clarks Fork Yellowstone River to return to Billings, Sheridan took the advice of an old hunter by the name of Shuki Greer who convinced Sheridan that traveling over the Beartooth Plateau was a quicker route from Cooke City to Red Lodge than the four-month journey up the Clark Ford River.
The Beartooth Highway (U.S. 212) is a stunning 68 mile scenic drive between Red Lodge and Cooke City, Montana just a few miles from the northeast entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Located in the southern part of Montana, near the Wyoming border you’ll find us at Rock Creek Vista Point selling Kettlecorn and Lemonade along with Roasted Nuts and Huckleberry glazed corn.
For most, this is the first true pullout point with plenty of parking spaces for vehicles. This scenic overlook was completed in 1935 with an 800 foot walkout that provides breathtaking views of Rock Creek Canyon and Hell roaring Plateau. It is a popular stopping point along the Beartooth Scenic Highway.
Beartooth Mountain Corridor
This highway passes through what is known as the Beartooth Corridor surrounded by the Custer, Gallatin, and Shoshone National Forests, traveling paralleled to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, abutting Yellowstone National Park and sets on a million plus acres of wilderness.
Beartooth Basin Summer Skiing
During late spring or early summer there is a unique summer skiing opportunity for you at Beartooth Basin. This ski area utilizes the remaining snowfields well into the warmer months, providing a novel skiing and snowboarding experience during summer; however, there isn't a lodge or ski rentals.
Souvenirs and Gifts from Rock Creek Vista Point
We have a variety of souvenirs to help you remember your scenic trip and to bring back memories of The Most Beautiful Drive in America Everything is handmade. We roast all of our nuts in old fashioned Copper Kettles, and we make our unique Huckleberry Glazed corn and Caramel Corn the same way. Our Beartooth Highway Tumblers are designed and printed with images of different wildlife you’ll see along your scenic journey across the Beartooth Mountains.
FAQs About the Beartooth Highway
The Beartooth Highway starts in the town of Red Lodge, Montana, and ends near the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park, just outside Cooke City, Montana. Or vice versa.
The driving time for the Beartooth Highway can vary depending on several factors, including traffic, road conditions, and how often you stop at viewpoints or attractions. Generally, the drive takes around 2 to 3 hours without stops, but it’s recommended to allow at least 4 to 6 hours (or more!) to fully enjoy the scenic route and take in the breathtaking views.
The best time of day to drive the Beartooth Highway is early morning or late afternoon. During these times, the lighting is softer, the road is less crowded, and you can witness stunning sunrise or sunset views over the mountains, enhancing your overall experience.
The Beartooth Highway includes several steep and winding sections as it climbs to high elevations. Some portions have grades of up to 10%, which might be challenging for large vehicles or those unaccustomed to mountain driving. However, the highway is well engineered and maintained, and as long as drivers exercise caution, it can be navigated safely.
Beartooth Basin is a ski area located along the Beartooth Highway. It’s only open in summer because the area receives heavy snowfall during the winter, making access and operations challenging. During the summer months, the snowpack melts enough to allow for skiing and snowboarding on the remaining snowfields.
For many travelers, the Beartooth Highway is a thrilling and aweinspiring drive due to its high elevations, steep grades, and dramatic scenery. While the road might be intimidating for some, it’s generally well-maintained and safe to drive with proper precautions. Drivers should pay attention to road signs, drive at a safe speed, and be aware of weather conditions.
Beartooth Pass doesn’t have a specific night closure, but it’s not recommended to drive the highway at night due to limited visibility and potential wildlife hazards. The road is not lit, and there are no services available during the nighttime.
Beartooth Pass typically opens for the summer season from late May to mid-October. However, the exact opening and closing dates can vary depending on weather conditions and road maintenance. It’s essential to check the current status before planning your trip.
Yes, you can drive an RV on the Beartooth Highway, but there are some considerations to keep in mind. The road includes steep grades and tight switchbacks, so it’s crucial to be comfortable with mountain driving and drive cautiously. Larger RVs may find some sections challenging, so it’s best to check with local authorities or experienced RVers for advice before embarking on the journey. Driving the Beartooth Highway and experiencing Beartooth Pass is an adventure like no other. With its awe-inspiring vistas, alpine lakes, and stunning landscapes, this scenic route offers an unforgettable journey through some of the most beautiful mountain terrain in the United States. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking an unforgettable road trip, the Beartooth Highway is well worth the experience. Just remember to plan your trip according to the seasonal opening, drive safely, and allow plenty of time to immerse yourself in the natural splendor along the way.
Bring Home the Adventure
Browse our unique products today and treasure the memories of the Beartooth Highway long after your visit.