This 68-mile stretch of US Highway 212 climbs from Red Lodge to the Beartooth Pass at 10,947 feet, offering dramatic alpine views and access to high-country camping. The road crosses glacial plateaus, passes alpine lakes, and provides access to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. Numerous pullouts allow for photography and wildlife viewing.
The highway typically opens late May and closes by mid-October due to snow. Weather can change rapidly at elevation, with summer snow possible. Plan for slow travel with switchbacks and steep grades. Fuel up in Red Lodge or Cooke City as services are limited along the route.
High-altitude scenic highway to 10,947 feet
Place Details
| Type | Point of Interest |
|---|---|
| Street address | 407 South Broadway Avenue, Red Lodge, Montana 59068 Get directions → |
| Elevation (ft) | 5555 ft |
| Nearest town | Red Lodge, MT |
| Miles from pavement | 0 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Paved |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Best season | June-September |
| Land manager | USFS |
| Permit required | No |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |