Often called one of the most scenic drives in Montana, and in America overall, the Beartooth Highway is a beloved local gem with some seriously stunning views. 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 might top them all, head for the Beartooth Highway. Read on to learn more about this incredible and unforgettable highway in Montana.
You will be absolutely amazed by the mountains and high-elevation lakes you'll see along the way. This is a Montana scenic drive that everyone should do at least once in their lifetime - and once you traverse it once, you'll want to do it all over again!
Since its completion in 1936, the Beartooth Highway has attracted millions of drivers and passengers. 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.
We also share the breathtaking Beartooth Canyon.
The Beartooth Mountains lie within the massive Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Discover some of the best parts of Glacier National Park in this quick video:
If you're looking for some of the best road trips in Montana, this is one that absolutely should not be missed. Driving down the Beartooth Highway is always a treat and one of our favorite scenic drives in Montana.
When you're finished admiring the scenery head back to Red Lodge for a fantastic weekend escape. Whenever you plan your trip, check out our road trip essentials packing list, before you go!
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/montana/plan-a-trip-to-red-lodge-mt/
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
