Beartooth Highway (US-212)
High-altitude alpine adventure through Big Sky Country
The Beartooth Highway twists through 68 miles of high-altitude terrain between Red Lodge, Montana and the northeast entrance of Yellowstone, earning its reputation as one of America’s most spectacular mountain drives. This engineering marvel climbs from 5,200 feet to 10,947 feet at Beartooth Pass, crossing the Montana-Wyoming border through terrain that resembles the surface of another planet. The route passes dozens of alpine lakes, including Island Lake and Beartooth Lake, where snow can persist into July.
This is a moderate difficulty drive suitable for any vehicle when conditions are good, but weather changes fast above treeline. The highway typically opens Memorial Day weekend but can close without warning due to snow, even in summer. Bring layers, extra fuel, and emergency supplies — cell service is nonexistent for most of the route. The payoff is accessing some of the most pristine wilderness in the Lower 48, with world-class fishing, hiking, and camping opportunities that’ll remind you why Montana earned the nickname Big Sky Country.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Paved |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 68 mi / 109.4 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 10947 ft |
| Best season | June-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Nearest town | Red Lodge, Montana |
| Land manager | Custer Gallatin National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can I drive the Beartooth Highway in a regular car?
Yes, any vehicle can handle this paved highway. It's a maintained scenic route, not a 4x4 trail.
Is the Beartooth Highway open in winter?
No, the highway typically closes from mid-October to late May due to heavy snow at high elevation. Check current conditions before traveling.
Do I need any permits to drive the Beartooth Highway?
No permits required for driving the highway. If you plan to camp in dispersed areas, follow standard National Forest camping rules.
What's the most challenging part of this drive?
The steep switchbacks climbing from Red Lodge and potential altitude sickness at 10,947 feet. Weather can change rapidly at high elevation.
How's cell service on the Beartooth Highway?
Expect no cell service for most of the route. Download offline maps and tell someone your travel plans before heading out.