This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Gardner Lake Pullout is a popular scenic overlook located along the Beartooth Highway in Montana. Chief Joseph Scenic Byway The lodge offers a variety of accommodations including cabins, campsites, and RV sites, with linens and showers available. Season: Mid-July to Labor Day The Top of the World Store is also a great place to stretch your legs if you have been driving for a whole and need a place to rest. Construction began in 1931 and over the course of five years, work crews built the switchbacks for which it would become famous. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. There are no fees associated with driving along the Beartooth Highway or visiting any of the scenic overlooks along the way. In the winter, Beartooth Basin transforms into a winter wonderland, with cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling available. Its a perfect choice if youd like to treat yourself to a romantic, luxurious stay. They have a variety of menu items including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, but folks always return for their famous lumberjack-style breakfasts like the fried trout or their extra-fluffy pancakes made from Hannahs original depression-era secret recipe. It is a largely volunteer-run nonprofit, staffed largely by interns from Lewis & Clark College in Oregon. Thanks a lot for sharing. If you will only have one day in Yellowstone, dont miss our guide for the Best Way to Spend One Day in Yellowstone. Beartooth Mountain's peak is over 12,000 feet. A local favorite, the Two Bears Inn Bed & Breakfast has great views, comfortable rooms, and classic Montana fare available at their restaurant. To check the status of Beartooth Highway, visit the Montana.gov website. They also have a small menu of expertly crafted classic American bar food. Electric sites are available for compatible RVs. If you spend more than $5 you get a ticket to its museum, which consists of numerous taxidermied animals posed in their natural habitat. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Hellroaring Plateau is the mountain range on the opposite side of Rock Creek Canyon. It was established in 1907 and has been the center of the towns social life for over 100 years. A classic American roadhouse with a fine-dining twist, the Carbon County Steakhouse is renowned for its attention to detail and exceptional menu. Beartooth Pass is a high mountain pass that traverses the Beartooth Mountains in the state of Montana. After Rock Creek Vista Point you will hit the biggest part of the switchbacks on the drive. To return to Yellowstone, you can retrace the route along Beartooth Highway, and then drive through Lamar Valley in the afternoon, a great time to be here. Theres no place better for skiing enthusiasts than Beartooth Basin, sitting just below the summit of Beartooth Pass. Jagged peaks soar on all sides. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". Though the highway is closed during the winter, there have been some fatal car crashes in its nearly 100-year history. From here youll be able to see the Beartooth Plateau and Yellowstone National Park, and you may even spot an elk, deer, moose, and if youre very lucky, a bear. Things to note before your trip down Beartooth Highway It was founded as a mining camp and is now a haven for tourists, with restaurants, souvenir shops, and lodging. Driving the Beartooth Highway Part of route 212 in Montana and Wyoming, the Beartooth Highway runs between Red Lodge and the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Because of violent winter storms and heavy snowfall, the highway closes annually between early October and late May, though snowstorms can occur at high elevations as late as July. 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. The viewpoint owes its name to the nearby Rock Creek stream. No reservations, first come, first serve only. Required fields are marked *. You have some nice photos. Look for high-elevation animals like marmots and pika when you picnic, but for the safety and health of the animals never feed them. The title comes from a Crow Indian word Na Piet Say, which means the bears tooth referring to a sharp rock formation that sticks up out of the plateau toward the roads summit. You never know. A Oleksandr Mazurchak. It is an easy access to Yellowstone National Park at its northeast entrance. This 12 mile hike is rated as strenuous and takes a full day. Visiting Pompeys Pillar National Monument Billings Montana, 14 Amazing Free Things to do in Billings MT, Top 10 Places to Eat Restaurant Guide Billings MT, Ultimate Guide to Little Bighorn Battlefield, Top 10 Things to See at Big Horn County Museum Hardin Montana. Originally built in 1932, the Elk Horn Lodge has seen many renovations, and offers many amenities such as an indoor pool, spa, fitness center, and game room. National park essentialsYoull need to enter: National parks pass Campsites: 18 The pass reaches the highest point of 10,947 feet and is known for its stunning views and rugged terrain. They have an on-site restaurant and bar with live entertainment, as well as a heated outdoor pool and hot tub. The Yellowstone Preservation Trust Montana is a statewide nonprofit organization that preserves and restores the natural beauty of Montana. 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. The spring Beartooth Highway plowing is a pretty intense process, especially after a winter that saw a deeper-than-normal snowpack. It is 68 miles long. There are many places along with this point where you can stop and take in views of the road. The Beartooth Highway is a pretty remote highway through the wilderness. This is why you must take your time. It also offers opportunities for exploring geological features, such as rock formations and fossil deposits. Recently, local officials have proposed shipping 70 of the animals to zoos and sanctuaries in Mexico and India, though experts are sceptical that the plan will succeed. In the bar, youll find top-shelf spirits and craft beers, while the cafe serves up hand-tossed pizzas and other fare made from local ingredients. The Alpine Lakes are a series of crystal clear lakes located along the Beartooth Highway in Montana. Custer National Forrest has 10 different sections around Montana and covers over 1.1 million acres. There is a short paved trail to an overlook where you have an awesome view of Rock Creek Canyon and Hellroaring Plateau. For most, simply looking up at them proves sufficient. Beartooth Lake Start from Gardiner, Montana, the North Entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Its picturesque setting and beautiful waters make it a popular destination for visitors. Suitable for tents and RVs up to 20 ft. Beartooth Lake Campground, positioned right on a lake and below a Butte offers the chance for both, with paths leading right out of camp. With only a short hike from the highway, you will come across the roaring Crazy Creek Cascade. Its highway designation is US 212 and it is a designated All-American Road. As a popular summer route into Yellowstone, open from Memorial Columbus Day, many know of its existence and eagerly plan a trip to cross it. About The Author This blog is definitely helpful! Heres a brief overview of some of the major stops along the way to Red Lodge. Best Way to Spend One Day in Yellowstone. When is the Beartooth Highway open? The inn was built in 1909 by two brothers who were both bear hunters so itwas originally called the Bear Hunters Inn. Theres a lot of information here, particularly if youre planning your first trip to Beartooth Highway. Since its completion in 1936, the Highway has awed millions of visitors with its astonishing views of one of the most rugged and wild areas in the lower 48 states. The 45th Parallel is a line of latitude that runs halfway between the North Pole and the equator, and its marked by a sign on the highway. At the end of the three-mile-long forest road 142, youll find one of the Civilian Conservation Corps decommissioned lookout towers. There are three main exhibits: Cooke City Memories, Cooke City Ghost Town,and Cooke City Mining. Beyond Beartooth Pass, the road begins to make its descent. Will is a true digital nomad, taking his work on the road at every opportunity. 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. The highway was built between 1932 and 1936 and named after the Beartooth Range, which it traverses. There are several trailheads nearby includingLake Fork Trail,Parkside Trail, andHellroaring Plateau Trail. All nine trails, accessible from two high speed lifts, are quite steep, designed for well-practiced skiers but offer spectacular views and snow that hasnt seen traffic all winter. Join my free Facebook community where we chat and share information about national parks, hiking, outdoor activities, and more! 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. Hiking essentialsRecommended hiking boots: Salomon Quest 4 Gore-tex You can supplement your cooler with snacks and beverages from the Gardiner Market. There are several trailheads nearby includingLake Fork Trail,Parkside Trail, andHellroaring Plateau Trail. Here youll exit through the parks northeast station and pass through the communities of Silvergate and Cooke City, Montana, where gas and other services are available. The best time to drive the Beartooth Highway depends on what youre looking to experience. It starts in Red Lodge, Montana and ends at Yellowstone National Park. Every room has a mountain view, it has a large living area with a wood-burning stove, and the open kitchen has stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. Many of the destinations I write about are the homes or sacred areas of Indigenous Peoples of North America. Visit www.recreation.gov to check whats required and make sure to reserve space when possible. Cooke City is located just a short drive from the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, making it a great base for exploring the park. Sites range in size up to 32 ft long to accommodate RVs, tent campers are also welcome. Be sure to take the necessary precautions with your food to avoid any nighttime visitors. You can stop to refuel, grab snacks or stock up on a wide range of Western souvenirs, from a rabbits foot to jigsaw postcards. It's also the highest elevation highway in both states. The higher you go, the better the views. lovely indoor swimming pool- A recent guestGuest Reviews Red Lodge Ales From parts of Custer and Shoshone National Forests to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, passers through have endless natural landscape to explore. You can hike the Beartooth Loop National Recreation Trail at this point. 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. Here at this rest area, you will find jaw-dropping views of Rock Creek Canyon and an easily accessed trail that is wheelchair friendly. It is truly one of the best places to spend time outdoors and worth exploring. Now if you are coming from Yellowstone heading towards Red Lodge then this will also mark your descent down the mountains. There are several types of passes available, and you can either get one at the Northeast Gate or in advance from the. All offer a unique experience in terms of sleeping under the stars and waking with a sunrise. We unfortunately did not have time to drive Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, which I have also heard is very nice. From this pullout, you have another nice view of Clarks Fork River Valley. Document your trip: National parks journal In 2003, they added additional accommodations for visitors to stay at before or after their tour with them. Beartooth Lake Campground The highest elevation is 10,947 ft (3,337 m) above sea level, and the highway is 68. An independent brewery, taproom, and package store, Red Lodge Ales creates many different styles of award-winning beer. Top of the World Resort Ive learned first hand that the Beartooth Pass is far more than just a means to reach one of the countrys most famous national parks. Elk Horn Lodge Cooke City $$$$ Trees and shrubs have disappeared and the landscape is a lot more barren. Our website uses cookies. at this point. While the Beartooth Highway is generally safe for most motorists, you should be prepared for inclement weather even in the summer. The elevation at one end of the highway, in Red Lodge, Montana is just over 5,500 feet. After passing Beartooth Lake the climb really starts with going up the mountains and the switchbacks. Take your time and drive slow and take it all in. There are also several scenic overlooks along the way where you can stop and take in the breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys, as well as towns where you can grab a bite to eat and stretch your legs along the Beartooth Pass. But we had no choice, since we had a big driving day ahead of us (we drove through Yellowstone and out to Cody, Wyoming). Cooke City This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Though there is no running water, the nearby Lake Creek streamwater can be filtered for drinking. Sites range in size up to 32 ft long to accommodate RVs, tent campers are also welcome. The building began as a saloon and general store in 1917, closed for several years in 1967, then was finally reopened in 2007 by Matt and Jody Hines. Read more about this in our, is an epic 68-mile byway that stretches through southwest Montana and heads right into, With only a short hike from the highway, you will come across the roaring. Some take reservations while others are on a first-come-first-serve basis. So let's take a look at a drive along the Beartooth highway starting at the Yellowstone National Park North East Entrance. Youll find parking and restrooms at the trailhead. No reservations, first come, first serve only. Though motorized boats are allowed on the lake, it is far more popular with canoers and kayakers. It is a popular tourist destination because of its natural beauty, small-town atmosphere, and proximity to Yellowstone National Park. 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. If youre interested in history, the Clay Butte Fire Lookout Tower is also a good place to learn about the regions past, as it was built in the 1930s as a fire lookout tower. Love the outdoors? July 25, 2014. Visitors can rest at this scenic overlook while enjoying the natural beauty of the region. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. As you drive farther along Beartooth Highway, the views will get even better, but this overlook is still well worth the stop. This vast wilderness of nearly a million acres includes the majestic Absaroka and Beartooth mountains. It is a thrilling drive from start to finish. Technically driving the Beartooth Highway takes only 2 hours, door to door. If youre planning on visiting the Beartooth Highway, Beartooth Basin is a must-see destination! Recommended accommodations Later on, in the summer you will enjoy yellow aspen trees that pair nicely with the dark hues of the mountains in the backdrop. Beyond this point, you enter Yellowstone National Park through the northeast entrance. Two Bears Inn Bed & Breakfast Red Lodge Area $$$ Fees: $15/night With a general store, rustic cabins, and equipment rentals, the Top of the World Resort makes for a unique stop near Beartooth Pass. Since then, the Beartooth Highway has often been referred to as one of the most beautiful mountain drives in America. Close Encounters: Beartooth Highway Mountain Goats - YouTube The Beartooth Highway is one of the most beautiful places in North America and also a great place to spot wildlife. As one of the most scenic drives in the United States, driving through the Beartooth mountains in the Northern Rockies is a highlight for those headed out west. Facilities: Fire rings, picnic tables, toilets, potable water, firewood for purchase Here you can view the Bears Tooth and discover how this highway got its name. Which spot do you plan on stopping to see some incredible views of Yellowstone? Season: Early May to Late September This depends on how many stops you make and of course the weather but the average is 2 hours one way. Originally constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), it is situated in the Clarks Fork Valley and has been designated as a historic site by the National Park Service. Do not try to traverse the highway at times when the National Parks Service has deemed it unsafe. Miners Saloon Top 39 FREE Things to do in Atlanta Georgia. We drove past the bridge in October 2021 and it was nowhere near being completed. This is the perfect place to stock up on supplies, enjoy a meal, or stay overnight before you continue along the Beartooth Highway. Its right at the intersection of Highway 212 and Highway 287, which makes it a perfect stop for tourists driving along Beartooth Highway. Recommended day pack: Osprey Daylite Pack About six miles after the Beartooth Highway crosses into Wyoming is the Crazy Creek Falls trailhead. Now, you are driving through alpine tundra. 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. I, myself, have crossed this pass more than sixty times, en route to a ranch that sits just before Cooke City, Montana. Beartooth Basin is one of North Americas oldest alpine ski training areas. Heres what you need to know about traveling through the Beartooth Pass in Montana. Rattin Campground Named an All-American Road by the National Scenic Byways, The Beartooth Pass takes visitors through some of the most remote environment in the country. At this point, you are at 9,190 feet and already 21 miles from Red Lodge. The Clarks Fork Picnic Area offers opportunities for other outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Part classic Montana tavern, part package store, part cafe, Miners Saloon is a historic landmark in Cooke City, Montana. The Beartooth Mountains also form part of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, and the landscape in and around them features some huge peaks amidst high and vast plateaus. Yellowstone National Park is a must-see destination for anyone driving through the Beartooth Pass. Beartooth Highway passes through theGallatin, Shoshone, and Custer National Forests, and is frequently called the most beautiful drive in the United States. Posted by amcstravel | Jul 19, 2019 | Destinations, Tips | 3 |. 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. In addition to its geological attractions, Yellowstone is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including bison, elk, bears, and wolves. These paths became popular with settlers, fur trappers, and loggers in particular. Heres a brief rundown of the major points and things to note before your visit. The Beartooth Highway is a breathtaking scenic drive that winds through the mountains of Montana and Wyoming. Closed to . Things To See Along The Beartooth Highway It passes through theGallatin, Shoshone, and Custer National Forests. You will cross the 45th parallel, which is the halfway point between the North Pole and the equator. Silver Gate Lodging Silver Gate $$ This 68-mile, scenic section of U.S. Route 212 zigzags along the Montana-Wyoming border connecting the parks northeast entrance community of Cooke City, Montana, to Red Lodge, Montana, in a series of steep and thrilling switchbacks. About twenty minutes before entering Yellowstone, the official end to the Beartooth Highway, you reach the town of Cooke City, Montana. Its hard to spot so keep your eyes peeled. super and great highway reacted out to share with here, Copyright 2023 Our Roaming Hearts | Bamboo on Trellis Framework by Mediavine. It also offers opportunities for exploring geological features, such as rock formations and fossil deposits. Finally, if you are traveling as a family, here are the best parks to visit with kids. Did we get lucky or what?! The Yellowstone Forever store in Gardiner sells binoculars and spotting scopes for better wildlife viewing and has an interactive map showing recent sightings. Lake Creek Campground Related:Visiting Pompeys Pillar National Monument Billings Montana. The project was greenlit and finally surveyed in 1927, though construction didnt begin until 1931. The exact opening and closing dates can vary from year to year, so its always a good idea to check the current road conditions before planning your trip. Red Lodge is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of recreational activities available including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and skiing. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Earth Trekkers is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by advertising & linking to Amazon.com. Your only option once you leave Red Lodge, other than the 4 rooms offered at the Top of the World. This is the end of Beartooth Highway. Na Piet Say means bears tooth by the Crow Indians. Dont miss our article Best Things to Do in Glacier National Park for more great things to do in the park. Despite its difficulty to navigate, its a designated All-American Scenic Byway and is a must-see when youre in the area. The Top of the World Store offers a variety of souvenirs, snacks, and beverages, making it a convenient place to stock up on supplies for your journey. The Beartooth Highway is known for its stunning scenery and rugged terrain, and the 45th Parallel Crossing is a fitting milestone along the way. Put simply, yes, there have been a number of Beartooth highway deaths. The road then descends towards Cooke City-Silver Gate, winding past alpine lakes, campgrounds, and jagged mountain peaks. Sign up for our FREE weekly email.Delivered to your inbox every Friday. Woman-owned and operated since founder Hannah Oie built this modest cabin from local, hand-hewn logs, The Log Cabin Cafe is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day from May until October. will get you an up-front and personal look at the Clarks Fork River Valley. The Yellowstone Forever store in Gardiner sells binoculars and spotting scopes for better wildlife viewing and has an interactive map showing recent sightings. A classic American roadhouse with a fine-dining twist, the Carbon County Steakhouse is renowned for its attention to detail and exceptional menu. Season: Early May to Late September This road is maintained by the National Park Service. ranging from postcards to ballcaps to coffee mugs. 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. It is 25 miles from Cooke City and 38 miles from Red Lodge. Its open year-round and offers free Wi-Fi, free continental breakfast, and a heated, outdoor pool. Red Lodge Brings back memories. Season: Mid-July to Labor Day Note: This post contains affiliate links. Originally built in 1932, the Elk Horn Lodge has seen many renovations, and offers many amenities such as an indoor pool, spa, fitness center, and game room. While it can be completed in a handful of hours, it is worth your time to take time and truly experience all thats available along the way. It has served as a curious geological feature and landmark for centuries. For this post, I started my drive in Yellowstone so if you starting in Red Lodge read from the bottom up! Categories Montana, National Parks, Wyoming. Past here, lodgings are limited to campgrounds and the occasional cabin until you reach the Red Lodge area. The highway is known for its winding, narrow roads and steep switchbacks, so its definitely not a short or easy drive. Campsites: 6 The town is located just an hours drive from Billings, Montana, making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway destination. 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. Is it safe to drive Beartooth Highway? Bison, elk, pronghorn, and moose are often visible with the naked eye from the roadway.