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The Beartooth Highway

Todd Schlotfeldt • Mar 28, 2023

All about the Beartooth highway!

If you're visiting the Yellowstone area and time allows, consider checking out Yellowstone beautiful neighbor - the Beartooth Pass Highway! The Beartooth Highway is a stunning 68-mile stretch of road that winds through the mountains of Montana and Wyoming. It starts in Red Lodge, Montana, and ends at the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park. The highway, which reaches an elevation of 10,947 feet, is a popular destination for tourists who want to experience some of the most breathtaking views in the United States.


When it Opens:

The Beartooth Highway is generally open from late May to mid-October, depending on the weather. The highway is closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall and dangerous driving conditions. Before planning a trip to the Beartooth Highway, it's important to check the road conditions and weather forecast, especially if you're visiting early or late in the season.


What to Do:

Drive the Beartooth Highway

The most popular activity on the Beartooth Highway is simply driving the road itself. The highway offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and there are many scenic pullouts where you can stop and take photos. The road is winding and steep in some places, so be sure to drive carefully and obey the speed limit. Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as bighorn sheep and mountain goats, that sometimes cross the road.


Hike in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness

The Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness is a vast wilderness area that spans over one million acres in Montana and Wyoming. The wilderness area is home to some of the most pristine and remote wilderness in the United States, with towering peaks, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife. There are many hiking trails that start from the Beartooth Highway, ranging from easy day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips. Be sure to bring appropriate gear and follow Leave No Trace principles when hiking in the wilderness.


Fishing in the Lakes and Rivers

The Beartooth Highway passes through some of the best fishing waters in Montana and Wyoming. There are many lakes and streams that are accessible from the highway, such as Rock Creek and the Clarks Fork River. These waters are home to a variety of trout, including rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. Be sure to obtain the appropriate fishing license and follow the regulations for the area.


Camping in the Area

There are many campgrounds and RV parks along the Beartooth Highway, ranging from rustic sites to full-service campgrounds. Many of these campgrounds offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and some are located near hiking trails and fishing waters. Be sure to make reservations in advance, especially during the peak season.


Visit the Town of Red Lodge

The town of Red Lodge, Montana, is located at the start of the Beartooth Highway and is a charming western town with a vibrant downtown area. The town offers many restaurants, shops, and galleries, as well as museums and historic sites. Be sure to visit the Carbon County Historical Society and Museum to learn about the history of the area.

In conclusion, the Beartooth Highway is a must-see destination for anyone traveling to Montana or Wyoming. Whether you want to drive the road, hike in the wilderness, fish in the rivers, camp in the mountains, or explore the town of Red Lodge, there is something for everyone on the Beartooth Highway. Be sure to plan your trip carefully, and enjoy the stunning beauty of this incredible part of the United States.


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