Scenic drives are a common experience in all regions of Montana. One of the best is the Beartooth Highway, U.S. Highway 212, south from Red Lodge to the northeast entrance to Yellowstone National Park. The overall distance of the Beartooth Highway is 68.7 miles. Some estimates say that it can take from two to three hours to drive the full length of the Beartooth Highway.
The Beartooth highway begins its ascent from Red Lodge at 5,588 feet (1,703 meters) in elevation and reaches its highest point at the Beartooth Pass at 10,947 feet (3,337 meters) in elevation. That is a rise in elevation of over one mile, 5,359 feet (1,633 meters) to be precise.
From Red Lodge, the Beartooth Highway winds its way up into the mountains, and in about twenty-five miles reaches Beartooth Pass. Many switchbacks make progress up Beartooth Highway possible for motor vehicles.
There is a lot of spectacular scenery along this route including lakes, streams, Rock Creek Canyon, and mountains, mountains, and more mountains. Huge snowbanks often remain beside the highway as late as July.
Vista Point is a popular stopping point along the Beartooth Highway. A short trail from Vista Point leads to an overlook with amazing views of the beautiful Rock Creek Valley.
The Beartooth Highway is only open during the warm season, generally from Memorial Day weekend until middle October. Specific dates for opening and closing of the Beartooth Highway can change due to weather conditions. Inclement weather can also result in temporary closure of the highway at any time during the summer.
If an award were handed out for most beautiful and spectacular drive in American, the Beartooth Highway would win handily.
Photo Gallery of Beartooth Highway
Red Lodge Blog, Absaroka Mountain, Mont.