A Montana Weekend Road Trip That Takes You Through Perfection

Every Montanan knows there's nothing quite like climbing into the car and exploring some of our beautiful state from the road. And while road trip season is definitely limited in the Treasure State, it never hurts to plan out some incredible weekend road trips in Montana. If it's been a while since you've taken in the amazing natural beauty of the Beartooth Highway, we hope this road trip route inspires you to do just that.

Technically, you can start this road trip anywhere you'd like... but we highly recommend starting it in beautiful Bozeman.

Fuel up your car and enjoy a hearty breakfast at the Nova Cafe, Main Street Overeasy, or any number of amazing restaurants in Bozeman, then hit the road as you embark on one of the best weekend road trips in Montana.

You'll cruise down I-90, passing through some of our most charming towns, including Livingston and Big Timber.

Stop in Big Timber and stretch your legs - it's surrounded by natural beauty.

Just before jumping onto the Beartooth Highway, you'll come to Red Lodge.

Tucked into a mountain valley between glaciers and plains, Red Lodge is a delightful little town that happens to be a perfect place to spend a night. In fact, it's considered to be one of the best small towns in Montana.

If you decide to stay in Red Lodge, treat yourself to a delicious dinner and take an evening stroll before retreating to the historic Pollard Hotel.

The hotel dates all the way back to 1893, so it's brimming with local history. Plus, it has an on-site pub in case you'd like to grab a nightcap (and possibly enjoy some live music too).

The next morning, rise and shine and head straight for Highway 212.

It's time to take in the scenic beauty of the Beartooth Highway.

The Beartooth Highway is a 68-mile travel corridor that begins just south of Red Lodge and ends near the Northeast Entrance to Yellowstone National Park and Cooke City / Silver Gate.

The route dips into Wyoming briefly, taking you through some incredibly stunning territory.

Come see why this highway has been called "The Most Beautiful Drive in America."

A section of it has even been awarded the National Scenic Byways' All-American Road status.

After passing through the beautiful Cooke City, you'll dip back into Wyoming again before ending up in Gardiner.

Gardiner is one of Montana's gateways to Yellowstone, and it's a perfect place to stop to top off your gas tank and have some lunch. Then, simply take Highway 89 North to Livingston and I-90 back to Bozeman to complete your road trip.

Here's a handy interactive map to help lead the way on one of the best weekend road trips in Montana!

Have you ever driven the Beartooth Highway? If you can't make it that way anytime soon, perhaps these other Montana road trips will inspire you.