Beartooth Highway
The Beartooth Highway, often hailed as "the most beautiful roadway in America," is a stunning route that captivates travelers with its breathtaking scenery and dramatic elevation changes. Climbing to an impressive 10,947 feet above sea level, this highway offers unparalleled views of some of the most rugged and wild landscapes in the lower 48 states.
Since its completion in 1936, the Beartooth Highway has been a magnet for millions of visitors seeking awe-inspiring vistas and unforgettable driving experiences. Stretching from the northeastern entrance of Yellowstone National Park to the town of Red Lodge, Montana, the highway traverses diverse ecosystems, from lush lodgepole pine forests to windswept alpine tundra.
At the highway's summit, travelers find themselves immersed in a world of glacial cirques, pristine alpine lakes, and lingering snowfields. Despite the harsh climate at this elevation, the tundra blooms with a spectacular array of wildflowers in late June and July, adding bursts of color to the rugged landscape.
The Beartooth Mountains, with over 20 peaks exceeding 12,000 feet in elevation, are home to a rich variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, black bears, elk, deer, moose, bighorn sheep, and more. The surrounding Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness boasts over 950 alpine lakes and hundreds of miles of trails, offering endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Travelers should plan on at least three hours of driving time to fully experience the beauty of the Absaroka-Beartooth Range along the Beartooth Highway. Whether you're cruising along on a motorcycle or taking a leisurely drive, be sure to pack warm clothing, as temperatures can be chilly at the highway's summit.
Due to extreme winter conditions, the Beartooth Highway is typically open only from Memorial Day weekend through early October. Travelers are advised to check with the US Forest Service or the Red Lodge Visitor's Center for current opening and closing dates before planning their trip.
The Beartooth Highway, often hailed as "the most beautiful roadway in America," is a stunning route that captivates travelers with its breathtaking scenery and dramatic elevation changes. Climbing to an impressive 10,947 feet above sea level, this highway offers unparalleled views of some of the most rugged and wild landscapes in the lower 48 states.
Since its completion in 1936, the Beartooth Highway has been a magnet for millions of visitors seeking awe-inspiring vistas and unforgettable driving experiences. Stretching from the northeastern entrance of Yellowstone National Park to the town of Red Lodge, Montana, the highway traverses diverse ecosystems, from lush lodgepole pine forests to windswept alpine tundra.
At the highway's summit, travelers find themselves immersed in a world of glacial cirques, pristine alpine lakes, and lingering snowfields. Despite the harsh climate at this elevation, the tundra blooms with a spectacular array of wildflowers in late June and July, adding bursts of color to the rugged landscape.
The Beartooth Mountains, with over 20 peaks exceeding 12,000 feet in elevation, are home to a rich variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, black bears, elk, deer, moose, bighorn sheep, and more. The surrounding Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness boasts over 950 alpine lakes and hundreds of miles of trails, offering endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Travelers should plan on at least three hours of driving time to fully experience the beauty of the Absaroka-Beartooth Range along the Beartooth Highway. Whether you're cruising along on a motorcycle or taking a leisurely drive, be sure to pack warm clothing, as temperatures can be chilly at the highway's summit.
Due to extreme winter conditions, the Beartooth Highway is typically open only from Memorial Day weekend through early October. Travelers are advised to check with the US Forest Service or the Red Lodge Visitor's Center for current opening and closing dates before planning their trip.
