Beartooth Pass is one of the most breathtaking mountain passes in the USA. This high elevation mountain pass between Montana and Wyoming, where you’ll find some spectacular scenery, alpine lakes, rugged peaks, and an amazing road trip. Beartooth Pass, one of the most spectacular drives in North America, is the entrance to Yellowstone National Park and a popular destination for visitors, photographers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts from everywhere.
From your summer road trip to your favorite scenic overlook, your favorite hiking trail, or your best route to Yellowstone, you’re getting an extra special adventure with Beartooth Pass. Here are all of the details on attractions, roads, hiking, wildlife, camping, and travel tips.
Beartooth Pass Travel Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Montana–Wyoming border, USA |
| Elevation | 10,947 ft (3,337 m) |
| Scenic Route | Beartooth Highway |
| Nearby Attraction | Yellowstone National Park |
| Best Time to Visit | July–September |
| Famous For | Scenic mountain drive, alpine lakes, panoramic views |
| Top Activities | Hiking, camping, fishing, photography, wildlife viewing |
| Key Scenic Stops | Rock Creek Vista Point, Beartooth Lake, Island Lake |
| Wildlife | Grizzly bears, moose, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats |
| Driving Time | 2–4 hours with sightseeing stops |
| Closest Towns | Red Lodge, Montana & Cooke City, Montana |
| Road Status | Seasonal; typically open late spring through fall |
What Is Beartooth Pass?
Beartooth Pass is a high pass in the Beartooth Mountains between Montana and Wyoming. The pass is at about 10,947 ft (3,337 m) in elevation, one of the highest paved mountain passes in the Northern Rocky Mountains.
The pass is on the historic Beartooth Highway, which runs between Red Lodge, the mountain town, and Cooke City near Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance.
Travelers are rewarded with:
- Dramatic mountain scenery
- Alpine tundra landscapes
- Crystal-clear lakes
- Waterfalls and streams
- Wildlife viewing opportunities
- Spectacular viewpoints
The trail rises through a surprising variety of habitats and offers ever-changing views on the drive.
Where Is Beartooth Pass Located?
Beartooth Pass is located in the northern Rocky Mountains, where part of the range is in Montana, and part is in Wyoming. It is a section of the trail from Red Lodge to Yellowstone National Park.
Nearby Destinations
- Red Lodge
- Cooke City
- Cody
- Billings
- Yellowstone National Park
- Shoshone National Forest
- Custer Gallatin National Forest
It is one of the most scenic routes for visitors to Yellowstone, thanks to its location.
Why Is Beartooth Pass Famous?
Exceptional Mountain Views
The area around Beartooth Pass is known for its stunning mountain landscapes, including rocky peaks, alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and expansive areas of wilderness. Snow can be found on the tallest peaks even in the summer, and visitors can have a panoramic view of the surrounding Beartooth Mountains. With dramatic changes in elevation and natural beauty intact, it is one of the most scenic places in the Rocky Mountains.
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Scenic Road Design
It’s known for the engineering feat known as the Beartooth Highway, which goes through the steep peaks of the mountain with switchbacks, curves, and views of the landscape. Each stretch of roadway offers a glimpse of alpine lakes, deep valleys, and towering peaks. This blend of road design and natural beauty makes it an unforgettable road trip experience for bikers, motorcyclists, hikers, and photographers.
Yellowstone Access
One of the most scenic entrances to Yellowstone National Park is through Beartooth Pass. It’s a popular choice for road trips to the park, and you’ll find lots of scenic looks, wildlife, and mountain views along the way. The drive is its own entertainment, and the Beartooth Highway is one of the most memorable road trips into Yellowstone.
World-Class Scenic Drive Experience
Beartooth Pass is a favorite of many North American drivers, and it is a natural, recreational,l and adventurous destination. Hiking trails, alpine lakes, wildlife habitats, ts and photography viewpoints can all be found, as well as one of the highest paved mountain roads in the area. It remains one of the most accessible and scenic trailheads in the world, where travelers hike year after year.
Outdoor Recreation
The area is a haven for:
- Hiking
- Camping
- Backpacking
- Fishing
- Photography
- Wildlife watching
- Scenic driving
The Beartooth Highway Experience
The Beartooth Highway is considered one of the most scenic roads in the United States and is a popular destination for visitors to the Beartooth region. It is a National Scenic Byway and an All-American Road that provides some of the most varied and spectacular scenery in the Northern Rocky Mountains. The road climbs across a rich forested valley to the high elevation alpine tundra, providing a rare chance to enjoy remote mountain environments from the comfort of a car.
As one travels along the twisting road, glacier-carved valleys, crystal clear mountain lakes, colorful wildflower meadows, rugged rocky peaks, and expansive high elevation plateaus are enjoyed. Throughout the way are scenic pullouts and overlooks for the traveler to stop and take in the panoramic views. Each mile offers a different view of the surrounding wilderness, and the trip is as memorable as the view from each stop.
Highlights Along the Beartooth Highway
- Glacier-carved mountain landscapes
- Alpine lakes and streams
- Wildflower-filled meadows
- Rocky Mountain summits
- High-altitude plateaus
- Overlooks and viewpoints of a scenic kind
- Wildlife viewing opportunities
- Photography locations
Best Time to Visit Beartooth Pass
Choosing the right time to visit Beartooth Pass can significantly enhance your experience. The location is exciting all year, with varying activities and scenery depending on the season.
Summer (June to August)
The summer season is the best and most enjoyable time to visit Beartooth Pass. The highway is usually completely open during this time, offering access to all of the main points of interest, walking trails, and recreational opportunities. The warm weather, sunny days, and flowering wildflowers provide great opportunities for outdoor learning.
The area is popular with hikers, photographers, campers, and road-trippers in the summer when the weather is pleasant and the mountains are clear of clouds. The best time to visit is usually in the summer months (July and August), when there is little snow and the most time and opportunities for sightseeing.
Benefits of Visiting in Summer
- All roads and pullouts are accessible and scenic.
- Pleasant daytime temperatures
- Peak hiking season
- Colorful wildflower displays
- Superb wildlife watching is available.
- Sight of mountains and lakes.
- Longer daylight hours
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Fall (September to Early October)
Fall is a popular time to stay another and enjoy the amazing sights to see and fewer crowds. With cooler temperatures starting, the scene begins to turn golden, orange, and yellow. The fresh mountain air and the colors provide perfect opportunities for scenic drives and photography.
Fall is also quieter than the summer, which can be hectic. The time is also ripe for wildlife activity, providing more chances for visitors to see wildlife up close and personal. Fall is one of the prettiest seasons to visit the Beartooth area with the help of the vibrant colors of the forest, snow-covered peaks,s and clear blue skies.
Advantages of Visiting in Fall
- Less traffic and less noise
- Beautiful fall foliage
- Outstanding photography opportunities
- Comfortable daytime temperatures
- Increased wildlife activity
- Scenic mountain landscapes
Spring
Beartooth Pass in the spring is a transitional time with very dynamic weather patterns. High elevations continue to experience snow late in the spring, and some areas of the roadway may be closed as road crews clear huge snow piles. During this time, visitors can see impressive snow banks and stunning mountain views.
Spring may be a little bit limited, but it’s a great time of the year to view the area emerging from winter. Waterfalls start to run well from melting snow, animals are more active, and the lowlands start to turn green. Travelers must review road conditions prior to planning a trip during the spring.
What to Expect in Spring
- Seasonal road openings
- Lingering snowfields
- Variable weather conditions
- Active snow-removal operations
- Newly emerging wildflowers at lower elevations
- Increased waterfall activity
Winter
Beartooth Pass turns into an alpine snowland in the winter. The Beartooth Highway is closed to vehicles in most areas because of heavy snow and bad weather. Sometimes the snow is so deep that the area experiences difficult conditions.
The scenic highway is closed to most traffic, though winter is popular among snowmobilers, cross-country skiers, and backcountry adventurers looking for a more remote mountain experience. Extreme cold, strong winds, and sudden weather changes are all possible,e so visitors should be ready for it.
Winter Conditions
- Considerable SNOW and SNOWWEAHER accumulations.
- Seasonal highway closures
- Limited vehicle access
- Extreme mountain weather
- Snowmobiling opportunities
- Backcountry winter recreation
- Stunning snow-covered landscapes
Summer and early fall offer the best time to visit Beartooth Pass as the weather is mild, the scenery is spectacular, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to do and see.
Beartooth Pass Weather
Beartooth Pass weather can be very erratic because of the high elevation and rugged terrain of the area. Often, conditions change so quickly, and visitors could encounter more than one type of weather in one day. The climate can change drastically with change of altitude and season: sunshine and mild temperatures, strong winds, rain, fog, and snow. When traveling, always refer to the most up-to-date weather updates before setting out, and be ready for a change in mountain weather at any moment.
Rapidly Changing Mountain Conditions
Rapid weather changes are one of the most unique features of Beartooth Pass. Travelers’ elevation along the Beartooth Highway can cause a significant drop in temperature and a change in weather in mere minutes. Clear sunny weather at low altitudes can suddenly turn cloudy and rainy or gusty at high altitudes. This fluctuating landscape not only adds to the region’s spectacular scenery but also demands flexibility and caution during travel.
Summer Weather at Beartooth Pass
It is the most popular season to visit in the summer; however, the weather is still very cold towards the summits compared to towns and valleys nearby. July and August can be chilly in the morning, cool in the evening, and there are snow showers at higher levels. During the summer months,s the skies are clear and offer fantastic scenery of the surrounding mountains, alpine lakes, and wilderness areas, perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and photography.
Essential Items to Pack
Weather conditions can change, and you should be prepared for different weather when traveling to Beartooth Pass. Layered clothing will help you adjust to different temperatures during the day, and a waterproof jacket will keep you dry in a sudden rainstorm. You should wear sturdy hiking boots to walk on the trails and viewpoints, and wear sunblock and sunglasses to help defend against high elevation ultraviolet exposure. It is also important to bring reusable water bottles, as the dry atmosphere of the mountain can make it easier to get dehydrated. Anyone planning to take photos of the beautiful scenery in the region would want to bring a camera to take snaps of the spectacular landscapes, wildlife, and panoramic views of the mountains.
Weather Safety Tips
Weather and road conditions should be closely followed before using the Beartooth Pass. In mountain areas, weather conditions can impact visibility and driving conditions, especially in stormy or snowy weather. Travelers should plan more time for scenic stops and delays due to the weather, take extra precautions with emergency supplies when available, and dress for cooler temperatures. With a bit of preparation, you can enjoy a safe and fun adventure on one of the most scenic mountain destinations in the American West.
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Top Scenic Stops Along Beartooth Highway
The drive along the Beartooth is just as memorable as the destination itself, with its many beautiful vistas, lakes, and historic sites. Whether you’re driving through a rural area or making a quick stop at a waterfront, these picturesque locations offer plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, photos, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities.
Rock Creek Vista Point
Rock Creek Vista Point is one of the most iconic and photographed locations along the Beartooth Highway. Nestled high above the land, this picturesque lookout offers expansive views of deep canyons, rugged peaks, and meandering stretches of the road below. Visitors can view the scenic views from the observation platforms and learn about the geology, wildlife, flora, fauna, and history from the interpretive displays. Rock Creek Vista Point is often the first stopping point of many visitors to the Beartooth region, and for them, it is a perfect introduction to the dramatic beauty of the area.
Beartooth Lake
Beartooth Lake is a beautiful, deep lake in the middle of a vast mountainous landscape and wilderness. The lake is a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere. The area is popular for fishing, and the stunning reflection of the peaks in the still waters on a clear morning is a draw for photographers. The beautiful waterfront also offers good picnicking, relaxation, and peaceful mountain areas.
Island Lake
A popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, one of the most beautiful lakes in the Beartooth Mountains. The lake is nestled in dramatic alpine environments and is a popular destination for kayakers, anglers, hikers,s and photographers during the summer months. Its crystal clear waters and the backdrop of mountains offer wonderful opportunities for landscape photography,hy and there are many trails nearby that give other landscape views and wilderness areas.
Top of the World Store
This is a popular rest point on the highway, where visitors can admire the scenery. Snacks, drinks, travel essentials, and souvenirs are available in the store, which makes it a convenient stop during a scenic trip. Its high elevation also offers great mountain vistas and has become a popular place for visitors to the Beartooth area to meet up.
Clay Butte Fire Lookout
A historic landmark and one of the largest views in the vicinity, the Clay Butte Fire Lookout. The lookout was built to watch for wildfires, but it is open to history and scenery buffs. The educational exhibits and interpretive displays offer visitors information on forest management, local wildlife, and the natural history of the region. The observation decks provide views of the surrounding mountains, forests,s and valleys, so it is a great place to take photos and sightseeing.
Hiking Near Beartooth Pass
The Beartooth area is one of the finest hiking regions in the Montana / Wyoming area.
Easy Hikes
Easy access to mountain landscapes is available on short trails near scenic pullouts.
Perfect for:
- Families
- Casual visitors
- Photographers
Moderate Trails
Several paths lead to alpine lakes and meadows.
Popular objectives include:
- Lake viewpoints
- Wildflower fields
- Scenic ridges
Advanced Backpacking
There are hundreds of miles of trails in the nearby Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness.
Backpackers can explore:
- Remote valleys
- High alpine basins
- Glacier-carved terrain
- Backcountry campsites
One of the best backpacking areas in the U.S. is this wilderness area.
Wildlife Viewing at Beartooth Pass
Another great thing about Beartooth Pass is the opportunity to watch the wildlife that frequently inhabits it. The varied habitats of the region, such as alpine tundra, mountain forests, wetlands, and rocky cliffs, host a rich array of animals. Early morning or late evening are also good times to visit the area to see wildlife in the wild.
Grizzly Bears
Some of the most recognized wildlife species in the Beartooth areainclude thee grizzly bear. They are strong animals that live in the wild and sometimes will be seen along roadways, meadows, and mountain valleys looking for food. When viewing a grizzly bear, visitors must always stay at a safe distance and obey the rules for observing bears.
Black Bears
Black bears can be seen all over the forest around Beartooth Pass. In the summer, they can be found foraging in trees for berries, insects, and vegetation. Black bears, in general, are not as aggressive as grizzlies; however, they should be approached from a distance and not approached.
Moose
Lakes, streams, wetlands, and marshy meadows are common places to find moose across the area. They are popular for their size and unique appearance, which makes them an appealing subject for wildlife photographers and nature lovers. Moose are especially active early in the morning and during the evening hours when temperatures are cooler.
Elk
Elk migrate through forests, open meadows, and mountain valleys adjacent to Beartooth Pass. Frequently seen in groups of these noble beasts, and often heard during the fall “rutting” season. The best time to see elk is during early morning hours and in the evening.
Bighorn Sheep
The rugged mountain environment of the Beartooth is ideal for Bighorn Sheep. They are easily noticed moving up and down cliffs and rocky slopes with great agility. They are one of the most interesting species of wildlife in the region, with their impressive curved horns, and they are able to survive in difficult conditions.
Mountain Goats
Although not commonly observed, Mountain Goat may be found on high ridges and steep rocky slopes near Beartooth Pass. They have thick white coats that help them survive in the cold mountain conditions and are particularly adept at climbing. The chance to see a mountain goat in the dramatic backdrop of the alpine region can be a highlight for visitors exploring the area.
Photography Opportunities
Beartooth Pass is a paradise for landscape photographers!
Best Sunrise Locations
Early morning light impressively illuminates mountain tops and lakes.
Best Sunset Locations
Beautiful, colorful scenes can unfold at night.
Wildflower Photography
Alpine landscapes can be colorful and full during the summer with wildflowers.
Wildlife Photography
A varied ecosystem offers opportunities to photograph large mammals and birds in the natural environment.
Astrophotography
If the light pollution is minimal, it is a great opportunity to photograph:
- The Milky Way
- Star trails
- Meteor showers
- Night landscapes
Camping Near Beartooth Pass
By camping, visitors can immerse themselves in the mountain environment.
National Forest Campgrounds
There are many campgrounds located in nearby National Forests.
Benefits include:
- Scenic settings
- Affordable fees
- Access to trails
- Wildlife viewing opportunities
Dispersed Camping
Primitive camping is available on many public lands and is a great place for solitude and flexibility.
RV Camping
There are several campgrounds for RVs that offer convenient facilities.
Fishing in the Beartooth Region
There are numerous lakes and streams for fishing in the Beartooth.
Popular species include:
- Cutthroat trout
- Rainbow trout
- Brook trout
- Lake trout
The Beartooth Mountains are one of the best high country fishing areas in the Rocky Mountains, in the opinion of many anglers.
Driving Tips for Beartooth Pass
The pass driving is an exciting experience b, but there’s a method to it.
Expect Sharp Curves
There are lots of switchbacks and grades on the highway.
Check Weather Conditions
The weather can impact visibility and road safety.
Fuel Up Early
Services are reduced in more remote mountain areas.
Drive Slowly
Widely spaced stops enable passengers to experience the countryside safely.
Prepare for Altitude
Some visitors may be impacted by the high elevation.
Common symptoms include:
- Mild headaches
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
Proper hydration can decrease discomfort.
Visiting Yellowstone Through Beartooth Pass
Visitors often opt to head up to Yellowstone National Park after visiting Beartooth Pass, making it one of the most picturesque road trips in the American West. The drive to Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance along the Beartooth Highway is truly remarkable for all of its mountain vistas, alpine lakes, wildlife sightings, and overlooks. The car ride to the park isn’t the only way to go; people can have a great time before the park with plenty of photo stops, hiking, and amazing views.
The first of the many benefits of entering Yellowstone by Beartooth Pass is that you get a more leisurely and beautiful ride in. Visitors have ample opportunity to admire the stunning scenery, spot wildlife, and discover the many viewpoints of the mountain during their journey. The road leading to Cooke City is considered to be one of the most scenic approaches to Yellowstone and is an essential part of any Yellowstone experience.
Benefits of Visiting Yellowstone via Beartooth Pass
- Spectacular mountain scenery along the route
- There are plenty of sightseeing and photography opportunities.
- Stroll through alpine lakes and beautiful overlooks.
- The trip offers opportunities to see wildlife at every turn.
- A more leisurely and relaxed trip
- This is one of the most beautiful drives to Yellowstone National Park.
Where to Stay Near Beartooth Pass
There are several different types of lodging choices on Beartooth Pass, from mid-range mountain cabins to full-service hotels. By remaining closer to the pass, passengers can make the most of their time spent enjoying the scenic drives, outdoor pursuits, and nearby attractions, such as Yellowstone National Park.
Red Lodge
Red Lodge is the main gateway to the Beartooth Highway and one of the most popular lodging locations in the area. A delightful mountain town with a warm welcome, easy access to the highway, and many lodging options. There are comfortable hotels, rustic lodges, private cabins, and vacation rentals available for visitors to stay at, and Red Lodge is a great place to stay to explore the surrounding mountains and wilderness.
Cooke City
Cooke City is also a great place to stay near Yellowstone National Park and at the eastern end of the Beartooth Highway. Cooke City is a charming small town with beautiful mountain views, offering access to hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and Yellowstone attractions. There are rustic lodges, mountain cabins, and locally owned hotels to offer a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration.
Yellowstone Area Lodging
Those who want to travel for a longer period of time can stay at or near Yellowstone National Park. There are different lodging choices available in the Yellowstone area, ranging from historic park lodges to camping grounds, cabins, and hotels in border communities. This proximity to the park makes it easy for visitors to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Beartooth Pass, along with Yellowstone’s geothermal attractions, animal life, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
Final Thoughts
Beartooth Pass is more than just a mountain road. It is one of the most dramatic landscapes, with alpine lakes, wildlife viewing, and outdoor recreation options with convenient access to Yellowstone National Park in the United States. Every mile has something amazing to offer, from the sweeping Rock Creek vista points to the clear waters of Beartooth Lake and the wild soaks in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness.
Beartooth Pass should be at the top of any traveller’s bucket list,t looking for one of the most memorable road trips in the American West.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Beartooth Pass Worth Visiting?
Yes. It is one of the most beautiful drives in North America and is an experience of unparalleled beauty, fun, and access to Yellowstone.
How Long Does It Take to Drive Beartooth Pass?
The highway takes about 2-4 hours to drive, with some scenic stops. A day off the hunt can be spent by the photographer and the hike exploring.
What Is the Elevation of Beartooth Pass?
The top of the mountain is about 10,947 feet above sea level.
When Does Beartooth Pass Open?
The road is typically opened seasonally after large snow removal efforts, typically in late spring or early summer, based on conditions.
Can RVs Drive Beartooth Pass?
Yes, but drivers must be familiar with handling steep hills and sharp turns.
Is Beartooth Pass Dangerous?
The roads are safe under good weather conditions, but you should drive carefully in the mountains in low temperatures and at high altitude, and because the roads are curved.
