Beartooth Highway

The Beartooth Highway (US-212) climbs from Red Lodge, Montana, over the Beartooth Plateau into Wyoming and down to Cooke City at the northeast gate of Yellowstone. It is one of the highest paved roads in the US and has been called the most beautiful drive in America.

The climb out of Red Lodge is a stack of switchbacks up a canyon wall; on top you ride across an alpine plateau of lakes, snowfields and tundra above the tree line, with the Absaroka and Beartooth ranges around you.

Highlights

• The switchbacks and overlook above Rock Creek Vista Point
• Beartooth Pass at the top of the plateau
• Twin Lakes and the snowbanks that last well into summer
• The descent toward Cooke City and the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone
• Easy extension: the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway (WY-296) back toward Cody

Best time to ride

The road is typically open from late May to mid-October, weather permitting. Snow can close it even in June or September — check the Montana and Wyoming road reports before you go.

The road

Well-paved with plenty of tight switchbacks. At this altitude the weather changes fast: sun, hail and freezing wind can arrive in the same hour.

Riding tips

• Pack warm and waterproof layers even on a hot day in Red Lodge.
• Fuel up in Red Lodge or Cooke City — there is nothing on top.
• Watch for wildlife and for cyclists on the climbs.