Do you have a favorite scenic drive in Montana? With gems like the Going-to-the-Sun Road at Glacier National Park and our breathtaking backroads, it’s easy to see why the Treasure State is a perfect place for road trippers. And if you’re looking for a route that just might top them all, head for the Beartooth Highway.

Often called one of the most scenic drives in Montana as well as in America overall, the Beartooth Highway is a beloved local gem with some seriously stunning views. You will be absolutely amazed by the mountains and high elevation lakes that you’ll see along the way. This is one of those Montana road trips that everyone should do at least once in your lifetime – and once you traverse it once, you’ll want to do it all over again!  Read on to learn more about this incredible and unforgettable highway in Montana.

Since its completion in 1936, the Beartooth Highway has attracted millions of drivers and passengers.
Jasperdo / Flickr
Journalist Charles Kuralt even called it the most beautiful road in America.
The highway winds from Red Lodge to the entrance of Yellowstone National Park, meaning we share a portion of it with Wyoming.
Jasperdo / Flickr
We also share the breathtaking Beartooth Canyon.
The Beartooth Mountains lie within the massive Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness.
Joel / Flickr
With over 950 alpine lakes and hundreds of miles of trails nearby, many of which are accessible from the highway, these mountains offer abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation.
The scenic byway is about 68 miles long in its entirety, but you'll be surprised by how many ecosystems you'll see.
Jasperdo / Flickr
You'll spot alpine tundra, pine forests, clear alpine lakes, glaciers, and more.
If you make the drive, don't forget to stop at every lookout point you can.
Jasperdo / Flickr
This route is worth taking slowly and enjoying to the fullest. You might even spot some wildlife—elk, deer, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain lions, and grizzly and black bears make their homes here.
The highway's history dates back to the late 1800s, when a huge influx of tourists who wanted to see Yellowstone National Park was brought on by years of exploration by trappers, gold seekers, and government expeditions.
Gerard Stolk / Flickr
It was clear that a reliable mode of transportation was needed from Red Lodge to Yellowstone. And it was quite a success. 20 years ago, the Beartooth Highway became one of the first 10 highways in America to be given the designation of All-American Road.
The Beartooth Highway is only open from Memorial Day until mid-October due to the winter weather making it too treacherous.
Jasperdo / Flickr
If you have yet to experience this stunning scenic byway for yourself, make this the year to go. Every second of the drive is scenic.

If you’re looking for road trips in Montana to try, this is one that absolutely should not be missed. Driving down the Beartooth Highway is always a treat. And when you’re finished admiring the scenery, head back to Red Lodge for a fantastic weekend escape.  Anytime that you’re planning a road trip, be sure to check out our Road Trip Essentials Packing List & Guide, too!

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Beartooth Highway

Christy Articola | November 29, 2022

How long does it take to drive the Beartooth Highway?

That depends on how many stops you make along the way! If you want to stop a lot and even hike a little, you can easily turn your drive on the Beartooth Highway into a full-day adventure. However, if you just want to drive it and plan to hustle along the way, it should take you about two hours.

Are there bathrooms on the Beartooth Highway?

Not many, but you can get a good bathroom stop in at the Rock Creek Vista Point Rest Area and Interpretive Trail. This stop has great views and also offers a trail that is wheelchair accessible.

What other scenic drives should I consider in Montana?

Oh! There are so many scenic drives in Montana and you should try them all. Here are a few to get you started:

 

The Beartooth Highway ends near Yellowstone National Park's northeast entrance. What drives should I take in the park to continue to take in the beauty?

Honestly, every drive in Yellowstone is absolutely incredible. You'll love them all! When you come in from the Beartooth Highway, you can expect to see lots of elk in the wide open spaces near that side of the park - and maybe some bison right away, too! Once you reach Roosevelt, you can decide whether you'd rather head to the northwest part of the park and Mammoth Hot Springs, or go south toward the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. You'll love it all! Make a big loop!

 

 

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Beartooth Highway, Beartooth Hwy, Red Lodge, MT, USA