The Beartooth Highway Is 68 Miles Of White Knuckle Driving In Wyoming That’s Not For The Faint Of Heart

Driving through Wyoming is always an adventure. Whether you're battling high winds, snowdrifts, or just taking in the incredible views, every time you hit the road, you could encounter something completely different. One of the Cowboy State's most famous highways is also one of its scariest - many consider the Beartooth Highway to be the most dangerous road in Wyoming.

The Beartooth Highway is a 68-mile stretch of winding mountain road that takes travelers from the Northeast entrance of Yellowstone all the way to Red Lodge, Montana. Along the way, you'll travel high up into the clouds.

This scenic and historic highway takes drivers through the Absaroka Range of the Rocky Mountains. Hairpin turns and switchbacks make up much of the journey, which can be dangerous and scary to anyone not used to mountain driving.

The Beartooth Pass Summit is the highest point along the road, at nearly 11,000 feet. This highway is also the highest road in Wyoming. Be sure you stop to take a photo at the sign!

You'll be on the edge of your seat... and also the edge of the mountains. In many places, you won't want to look down from the passenger side window!

Of course, all of this white-knuckle driving isn't without its rewards. The views from turnouts and scenic vistas are some of the most beautiful in the state. There are dozens of bright blue alpine lakes along the way!

If you're a bit of a chicken, you might want to let someone else drive. It takes nerves of steel (or a lot of experience driving in the mountains) to successfully navigate the most dangerous road in Wyoming.

Don't worry, though, you'll get plenty of breaks to stop and see the sights. Make sure to stop at the Top of the World Store and spend some time way up high!

Be aware that the chipmunks at many of the turnouts may try to steal your snacks. Don't feed them, no matter how cute they are.

Because of the highway's elevation, summertime snow squalls aren't uncommon. Be sure to check the status of the highway to see if it's open before heading out on this hair-raising drive.

Do you love twisting, turning byways and highways? After you've completed the Beartooth Highway (or perhaps before, while you're waiting for it to open), travel The Chief Joseph Scenic Byway. Unlike the Beartooth, it's open year-round and maintained. In storms, it may close, but it does get cleared as soon as it is safe to do so.