animals on the beartooth highway animals on the beartooth highway

This forest was named after General Custer who did at the Battle of Little Big Horn just outside Billings Montana. Categories Montana, National Parks, Wyoming. Just make sure your dates of travel are from June through early October, when this road is typically open. She loves helping travelers create their most epic adventures in the outdoors. Following years of local advocacy, the legislation passed a bill known as the Parks Approach Act, which allowed for the creation of the Beartooth Pass. Youre in and out in a few minutes but it undoubtedly adds to the mountain town experience. It has served as a curious geological feature and landmark for centuries. Overall, the Alpine Lakes are a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of the Beartooth Mountains. Starting in Red Lodge, at 5,500 feet, it climbs up to Beartooth Pass, topping out at 10,947 feet. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Visitors can rest at this scenic overlook while enjoying the natural beauty of the region. Season: Late May to Mid-September But if youre up for a thrilling drive and some breathtaking views, the Beartooth Highway is a must-see destination. There are several options for overnight accommodations near the Beartooth Highway. Theres also plenty of parking at this pitstop. And the drive from the east entrance of Yellowstone to Cody is another underrated scenic drive. Beartooth Highway Elevations. While the Beartooth Highway is generally safe for most motorists, you should be prepared for inclement weather even in the summer. Later on, in the summer you will enjoy yellow aspen trees that pair nicely with the dark hues of the mountains in the backdrop. Every Memorial Day weekend there is a celebration here to mark the opening of the highway again for the summer. The Beartooth Highway is part of the larger National Scenic Byway System. A high-elevation lake in the Beartooth Mountains, Gardner Lake is accessible via a fairly short but somewhat challenging trail that begins near Highway 212. Some take reservations while others are on a first-come-first-serve basis. This is also the location of a multi-million dollar road construction project. Hotels The accommodation includes cabins, a bunkhouse, and RV sites for those looking for an overnight stay near the park entrance. Related:Top 10 Things to See at Big Horn County Museum Hardin Montana. Nestled against the Beartooths, Montana's highest mountain peaks, Red Lodge is a place of extraordinary beauty and, wherever you turn, real smiles, genuine warmth and a welcoming, Western-style hospitality. In 2003, they added additional accommodations for visitors to stay at before or after their tour with them. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. While the Beartooth Highway is generally safe for most motorists, you should be prepared for inclement weather even in the summer. Beartooth Highway can be driven in either direction. The Beartooth Highway is typically open from late May to mid October, depending on the weather. Greenough Lake Campground Overnight Accommodation Along The Beartooth Highway It is an easy access to Yellowstone National Park at its northeast entrance. This is a beautiful part of the drive. Rock Creek Vista is a great place to stop and take a break from the road, and its also a popular spot for picnicking and taking photos. Its a perfect choice if youd like to treat yourself to a romantic, luxurious stay. It was heavy snow that a few times I had to pull off to the side of the road for safety until I could see better. The 69-mile highway winds and climbs to more than 10,000 feet above sea level to reach Beartooth Pass.The road passes through alpine forest and arctic tundra, is full of sheer drop-offs, and delivers . Stepping out of the car and taking in the view of the infamous Bear's Tooth and seeing the numerous lakes that dot the landscape really paint the possibility of what the fishing can behold on the highway and beyond. Take your time and drive slow and take it all in. Theres also a snowmobile road that begins here and connects to Cooke City. If you have timeyou could take a stroll through Cooke Citys historic district, or hit up one of the many local trailheads to embark on an epic hike. An independent brewery, taproom, and package store, Red Lodge Ales creates many different styles of award-winning beer. Fees: $15/night This is why you must take your time. Fees: $20/night Here at this rest area, you will find jaw-dropping views of Rock Creek Canyon and an easily accessed trail that is wheelchair friendly. If you click the star next to the title of the map, this map will be added to your Google Maps account. Be sure to drive safely no matter your route and soak in the sights and experiences of your day. But with all the views along the way, its well worth the trip. Before doing this drive, get updates on the National Park Service website and the Montana.gov website. This is the end of Beartooth Highway. If you have timeyou could take a stroll through Cooke Citys historic district, or hit up one of the many local trailheads to embark on an epic hike. Beartooth Highway closed on October 7, during the first snowfall of the season. We drove past the bridge in October 2021 and it was nowhere near being completed. Only a mile from Yellowstone, this modest sundry and gift shop is known for its ice cream and its incredibly hospitable owners, Cheryl and Jill. Have any questions about your trip through the Beartooth Highway? We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Theres a small parking lot from which a two-mile-long out-and-back trail leads to one of the Shoshone Valleys most beloved waterfalls. Snowstorms can occur as late as July near Beartooth Pass, so be sure to bring gear for yourself and your vehicle just in case you get caught in unexpected weather. This road is maintained by the National Park Service. At 10,947, this is the highest point along Beartooth Highway. It's also the highest elevation highway in both states. Covering 68 miles from Red Lodge, Montana to the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, it brings visitors into and through absolutely untouched wilderness. If you do Beartooth Highway Chief Joseph Scenic Byway Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway east entrance of Yellowstone, this will take one full day. It is sometimes called the Red Lodge-Cooke City Highway because of the two cities it connects. This high-elevation lake is extremely scenic and easily reached by car, so dont be surprised if you find several other people enjoying the recreation area, trails, and campground when you arrive. Made from unstable rock, you cant hike to the top of either; but one can, if feeling adventurous and in possession of great orienteering skills, climb to the saddle (youll need 2 cars, as it is not a loop, and at least 12 hours). There are a few interpretive displays here that explain some of the history and geology of the area. Chelsea DeWeese is a writer based in her hometown of Gardiner, Montana, at the North Entrance to Yellowstone National Park. About The Author Youll also find plenty to explore at the here, as the area is known for its interesting rock formations and fossil deposits. Rock Creek Vista Theres a lot to do along Beartooth Highway, and many folks decide to stay the night either at one of the ends or somewhere along the way. Typically, opens right around Memorial Day. No reservations, first come, first serve only. The fall is also a beautiful time to drive the Beartooth Highway, as the trees turn golden and red, creating a stunning contrast against the blue sky and mountains. . Opening for business in mid-to-late May, those craving an extended season can squeeze in a few more runs, even in the heart of summer. Suitable for tent camping. An independent brewery, taproom, and package store, Red Lodge Ales creates many different styles of award-winning beer. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. It is a largely volunteer-run nonprofit, staffed largely by interns from Lewis & Clark College in Oregon. A local favorite, the Two Bears Inn Bed & Breakfast has great views, comfortable rooms, and classic Montana fare available at their restaurant. Built on Beartooth Lake in 1934, it has since moved to sit right along the Beartooth Highway and serves as the only store along the pass. There are no fees associated with driving along the Beartooth Highway or visiting any of the scenic overlooks along the way. Theres also an on-site restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and a shuttle service to nearby attractions like Yellowstone National Park or Cody Country Cowboy Museum. Check below for a few choice activities in Silver Gate (and Cooke City following,) but you can also peruse the Cooke City/Colter Pass/Silver Gate Chamber of Commerce sitefor even more information about local tourist attractions and events happening in the area. However, if youre planning on a Yellowstone National Park itinerary, you will need to purchase a park pass. Now if you are coming from Yellowstone heading towards Red Lodge then this will also mark your descent down the mountains. The 45th Parallel Crossing is a popular spot for tourists to take a photo, and its also a good place to get information about the highway and the surrounding area. Document your trip: National parks journal There are also restrooms here. This charming town sits at the base of the Beartooth Mountains. A few years ago we went through hail and then snow in mid August. How to Use This Map: Click the tab in the top left hand corner of the map to view the layers. Beartooth Highway is a 68-mile road that runs along the border of Montana and Wyoming, connecting the towns of Red Lodge and Cooke City. BEST OPTION FOR FAMILIES: HIGH COUNTRY HOTEL AND CABINS There are so many unnamed stops along the Beartooth Highway that have amazing views and are worth the stop. It took us just under 3 hours and we stopped frequently for photos. Trees and shrubs have disappeared and the landscape is a lot more barren. He loves nothing more than hitting the road in his self-build campervan and visiting off-the-beaten-path places, away from popular tourist destinations. Along the way, it passes through some of the most stunning scenery in the region, including alpine meadows and alpine tundra, crystal clear lakes, forested, valleys, and rugged peaks. The accommodation includes cabins, a bunkhouse, and RV sites for those looking for an overnight stay near the park entrance. This gives you time for stops at scenic overlooks along the drive. Brings back memories. They have an on-site restaurant and bar with live entertainment, as well as a heated outdoor pool and hot tub. Part classic Montana tavern, part package store, part cafe, Miners Saloon is a historic landmark in Cooke City, Montana. Along the way, youll find a number of interesting landmarks and points of interest, including the Chief Joseph Scenic Overlook, which offers breathtaking views of the nearby mountain range. Founded by John and Karen Potter in 1988, Yellowstone Touring Company specializes in providing tours of the Yellowstone National Park and Beartooth Highway. In the mid 1800s, the natural resources found around Cooke City and Red Lodge attracted entrepreneurs in droves, transforming both into well-established Montana mining towns. Though Cooke City is a small town with a population of only around 250, its considerably larger than the tiny community of Silver Gate and has a considerable amount of infrastructure for visitors. This is a small, remote, and picturesque picnic area with a scenic view of the Beartooth Mountain Range. They do this by purchasing land and easements, restoring habitats, and engaging in advocacy for public lands. Always check the road conditions before your trip just in case of road closures caused by snow, heavy rain, mudslides, or construction. Wow! There is a sign along the Beartooth Highway midway along the high plateau that indicates which state you are actually in. The Beartooth Highway is one of the most spectacular scenic drives we have done in the USA, rivaling Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park, and the Big Sur Coast Highway in California. Northwest Wyomings Beartooth Lake is one of the most popular attractions along Highway 212. A short series of switchbacks brings you to a plateau that is filled with alpine lakes. Lower Lady of the Lake Trailhead A little farther down the road is Silver Gate, another cluster of lodges and restaurants. It is also called Beartooth National Scenic Byway, Beartooth All-American Road, Highway 212, and the Red Lodge-Cooke City Highway. The Beartooth Highway starts in Red Lodge Montana and ends at the Northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Alpine Lodge Red Lodge Area $$ Beginners should be wary of the altitude and be sure to take plenty of water along with them. Gardner Lake Pullout is a popular scenic overlook located along the Beartooth Highway in Montana. This picturesque lake, embraced by towering mountains and lush greenery, serves as a marvelous setting for a myriad of outdoor activities. The Pollard Hotel Red Lodge $$$ Clarks Fork Picnic Area A six-bedroom, three-bath cabin, the Moose on the Loose Mountain Villa is a beautifully designed and furnished home with all the amenities of home. On the outskirts of Silver Gate is the trailhead to the Bannock Ski Trail, a two-mile cross-country ski trail that follows a retired mining path from Silver Gate to just inside Yellowstone. Construction of the highway began in 1932 and was completed June 14, 1936. The lodge offers a variety of accommodations including cabins, campsites, and RV sites, with linens and showers available. Construction began in 2020 and was planned to be completed by September 9, 2021. Or, bring your fishing rod and enjoy an afternoon exploring the regions pristine lakes. Opening and closing dates can vary from year to year, so be sure to check road conditions with the National Parks Service in advance of your trip. Clay Butte Fire Lookout Tower Beginners should be wary of the altitude and be sure to take plenty of water along with them. Despite its size, boasting around 140 inhabitants (according to the 2000 census) you can find almost anything you need and often items you never even knew you wanted. Located at the northern end of the highway, Yellowstone is the worlds first national park and is home to a wide range of geological and natural wonders. It's a great route to take on your Montana road trip! If you have the time and you want to experience countless glacial lakes, national forests, and a beautiful drive in America, this route shouldnt be missed if you get the chance! Suitable for both tents and RVs, this is a well-appointed campground that takes reservations up to six months in advance. Mountain goats, lions, moose, bears, and wolves are among the wildlife you will encounter on your journey. Red Lodge for more inspiration and travel planning tips. Open to hard-sided camping only, like trailers and RVs. During the winter months, the pass is closed due to heavy snowfall and dangerous driving conditions. Once you enter the park, y. This 12 mile hike is rated as strenuous and takes a full day. Related:14 Amazing Free Things to do in Billings MT. Lake Creek Falls, located along the Beartooth Highway in Montana, is a stunning waterfall that should not be missed. After passing Beartooth Lake the climb really starts with going up the mountains and the switchbacks. The Na Piet Say Rock is a historic landmark located along the Beartooth Highway in Montana. The Alpine Lakes are nestled in the mountains and surrounded by alpine meadows, making them a great place to take in the breathtaking scenery of the region. PRO TRAVEL TIP: For photography and lighting, the best time of day to drive Beartooth Highway is between 10 am and 5 pm. The lodge offers a variety of accommodations including cabins, campsites, and RV sites, with linens and showers available. Beartooth Basin is one of North Americas oldest alpine ski training areas. Beartooth Cafe You can also learn more about the national parks (and get the full list) in our Guide to the US National Parks. Theres a wide variety of lodgings available in the region ranging from bare-bones campgrounds all the way to multi-room mountain villas. If youre looking for a rustic mountain lodge experience, the Alpine Lodge has several unpretentious, comfortable rooms. We drove Beartooth Highway on October 5, 2021. Many portions of the highway were originally paths used by the Shoshone and Crow for thousands of years. Though it was no small feat to build it is regularly called a marvel of engineering it miraculously took only half of the time and original budget that its construction was planned to consume. Explore the Clarks Fork Picnic area 4 miles east of Cooke City for a short, accessible, interpretive walk or for the start of a longer hiking expedition. Season: Early June to Early September The name was taken from a former hunting lodge once used by James J. Hill and other railroad executives during their visits to the area. With its headwaters just outside of Cooke City, Montana, the upper section of this tributary is a fishermans dream. You can supplement your cooler with snacks and beverages from the Gardiner Market. The Last Resort Lodge is a historic motel originally built in the 1950s. It is sometimes called the Red Lodge-Cooke City Highway because of the two cities it connects. Reservations This overlook, which is also called Yellowstone Overlook on Google Maps, offers your first good view of Pilot and Index Peaks. Over the course of several miles, Beartooth Highway steeply ascends up into the mountains. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. At this point, you are at 9,190 feet and already 21 miles from Red Lodge. Be sure to bring plenty of bug spray as mosquitos are present during much of the summer. Only a mile from Yellowstone, this modest sundry and gift shop is known for its ice cream and its incredibly hospitable owners, Cheryl and Jill. Several miles outside of Red Lodge is the welcome sign for Beartooth Highway. The route was originally used to transport supplies to various mining camps and military posts in the region, though today its a popular destination for travelers who want to take in the natural beauty of Montana. Theres a lot of information here, particularly if youre planning your first trip to Beartooth Highway. Their tourism outfit utilizes an original bright yellow, fully restored 1937 Model 706 Yellowstone National Park Bus to take groups of up to 10 people along Beartooth Highway. Visit www.recreation.gov to check whats required and make sure to reserve space when possible. After reaching the top of Beartooth Pass and taking in the sweeping scenery, including high-alpine lakes, either continue east to Red Lodge or retrace your route to rest at one of the many lodging options in Gardiner. Founded by John and Karen Potter in 1988, Yellowstone Touring Company specializes in providing tours of the Yellowstone National Park and Beartooth Highway. I would recommend stopping here and dipping your feet in the alpine lake! If you are wanting to stay in hotels, then you have a few options to consider. This list of things to do on Beartooth Highway starts in Red Lodge and ends at Yellowstone National Park, since that is the direction that we did this drive. Though its colloquially called Beartooth Highway its official name is the Beartooth National Scenic Byway. A six-bedroom, three-bath cabin, the Moose on the Loose Mountain Villa is a beautifully designed and furnished home with all the amenities of home. 7 Miles (110.6 km) long. Despite its difficulty to navigate, its a designated All-American Scenic Byway and is a must-see when youre in the area. Unlike the Going-to-the-Sun Road, you do not need a reservation or a ticket to drive on Beartooth Highway. Stop by the Beartooth Scenic Byway Welcome Sign, Conclusion: driving the Beartooth Highway, BOOK YOUR RENTAL CAR FOR THE BEARTOOTH HIGHWAY HERE, 34 of the Absolute Best Hikes in Yellowstone National Park, The Ultimate Guide to Shoshone National Park, The Ultimate Guide to the Bridger-Teton National Forest, 20 of the Absolute Best Montana Hiking Trails, Highline Trail: Logan Pass to the Loop in Glacier National Park (2023), The Best Time to Visit Glacier National Park (2023), The Ultimate Guide to Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park. There are several trailheads nearby includingMount Maurice Trail,Corral Creek Trail, andBear Track Trail. Season: Late June to Labor Day If you have a few days in Yellowstone and want to add on this scenic drive, you will have to set aside at least half of a day. Really loved the place. Red Lodge is a great place to start your journey. At the end of the three-mile-long forest road 142, youll find one of the Civilian Conservation Corps decommissioned lookout towers. Remember to use pullouts when viewing wildlife and to maintain a safe distance to protect yourself and the animals.