Road Trip Guide
Beartooth Highway: Top of the World Drive
Red Lodge, MT to Cooke City, MT
Start Your Engine
Red Lodge, MT
The Finish Line
Cooke City, MT
68 miles
Miles
4-8 hours (driving time only, not including stops)
Days
Start Stops End
Trip Essentials for Red Lodge, MT
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Insider Driving Tips
Always check road conditions before you go, especially early or late in the season. The Beartooth Highway is typically open from late May/early June to mid-October, but closures due to snow can happen anytime.
Fuel up your vehicle in Red Lodge! There are no gas stations along the highway itself, and the next reliable fuel stop is in Cooke City, which can be pricey. Don't risk running on fumes in the high country.
Dress in layers, even in summer. Temperatures can drop significantly as you gain elevation, and weather can change dramatically within minutes, bringing anything from sunshine to snow flurries.
Keep an eye out for wildlife. Mountain goats and bighorn sheep are common sightings in the higher elevations, while moose and bears might be spotted in the lower forested areas. Always maintain a safe distance.
Take your time and utilize the numerous pull-offs. This isn't a race; it's an experience. The best views are often found by stopping, getting out of your car, and taking a short walk to an overlook.
The Journey: Stop-by-Stop
Red Lodge, MT
Red Lodge Cafe & Lounge
“A local institution serving up classic American diner fare since 1937. Their breakfasts are legendary, perfect for fueling up before your high-altitude drive.”
Downtown Red Lodge Main Street
Capture the historic architecture, colorful storefronts, and the majestic Beartooth Mountains rising dramatically in the background.
Roosevelt Bridge
Just outside town, this scenic bridge offers a lovely framing of Rock Creek and the surrounding foothills as you begin your journey towards the highway.
Carbon County Historical Society & Museum
Dive deeper into the region's rich past, from its mining heritage to the stories of early pioneers and Native American tribes. It's a fantastic way to appreciate the context of the landscape you're about to explore.
Rock Creek Vista Point
Picnic at the Vista Point
“Pack a lunch from Red Lodge and enjoy it at one of the picnic tables while soaking in the incredible, unobstructed views of the canyon and distant peaks.”
Rock Creek Canyon Overlook
Frame the dramatic U-shaped canyon, carved by ancient glaciers, with the winding highway visible in the distance below.
Wildflowers and Scenic Byway Signage
In summer, the meadows around the vista are often bursting with colorful wildflowers, providing a beautiful foreground to the rugged mountain backdrop. Capture the iconic Beartooth Highway sign here.
Hellroaring Plateau Trailhead
Just a short drive past the main vista, this trailhead offers a chance to explore a less crowded area. Even a short walk rewards you with stunning views and a sense of true wilderness immersion.
Beartooth Pass Summit
Top of the World Store (seasonal)
“While not a restaurant, this small, rustic store near the summit offers snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. It's a unique spot to grab a hot coffee or a candy bar at nearly 11,000 feet.”
Summit Sign and Panoramic Views
Get a classic shot with the Beartooth Pass Summit sign, showcasing the elevation, and then turn to capture the expansive, unobstructed vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Alpine Tarns and Reflections
Look for the small, clear tarns (mountain lakes) scattered across the summit plateau. On a calm day, they offer incredible reflections of the sky and the towering Beartooth Butte.
Gardner Lake Trailhead
A short, relatively easy hike from near the summit leads to Gardner Lake, a stunning high-alpine lake. It's a fantastic way to stretch your legs and experience the tundra up close, away from the immediate crowds.
Island Lake and Beartooth Lake
Beartooth Lake Lodge (seasonal)
“Located near Beartooth Lake, this historic lodge offers rustic cabins and a small, seasonal restaurant or general store where you can grab a bite or a drink with a view.”
Island Lake with Beartooth Butte
Capture the iconic island in Island Lake, perfectly framed by the majestic Beartooth Butte rising dramatically behind it. Ideal for sunrise or sunset shots.
Beartooth Lake Campground Shoreline
Explore the shores of Beartooth Lake, focusing on reflections of the surrounding mountains in the calm waters, especially from the quieter areas around the campground.
Little Bear Lake Trail
A short, relatively flat trail from the Beartooth Lake area leads to Little Bear Lake, a quieter and often less crowded spot perfect for a peaceful picnic or a moment of solitude.
Cooke City, MT
Miners Saloon
“A classic Cooke City establishment offering hearty pub fare, local beers, and a lively atmosphere. It's the perfect spot to unwind after a day on the road.”
Historic Main Street of Cooke City
Capture the rustic charm of Cooke City's main street, with its wooden buildings, saloons, and the impressive Absaroka Mountains looming behind.
Cooke City Welcome Sign with Mountains
As you enter or exit the town, find the 'Welcome to Cooke City' sign. Frame it with the dramatic mountain backdrop, signifying the end of your Beartooth adventure.
Lulu Pass Road
For those with a high-clearance 4x4, Lulu Pass Road (turn off before Cooke City) offers a challenging but rewarding drive to an old mining ghost town and incredible backcountry views, a true off-the-beaten-path experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The Beartooth Highway is generally open from the Friday before Memorial Day weekend through mid-October, weather permitting. However, snow can cause temporary closures even in summer, so always check conditions before you go.
While RVs and trailers are permitted, the highway is extremely winding with steep grades and numerous switchbacks, especially on the Montana side. Drivers of large vehicles should exercise extreme caution, be experienced with mountain driving, and allow ample time. Some prefer to unhitch trailers in Red Lodge or Cooke City and drive the highway with just the tow vehicle.