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Montana

Beartooth Highway & Red Lodge

The Beartooth Highway is considered one of the most spectacular panoramic roads in the world. At around 110 kilometres, the route runs from Red Lodge in Montana to the north-east entrance of Yellowstone National Park, crossing the Beartooth Pass at an altitude of 3,337 metres.

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Why go

The Beartooth Highway is considered one of the most spectacular panoramic roads in the world. At around 110 kilometres, the route runs from Red Lodge in Montana to the north-east entrance of Yellowstone National Park, crossing the Beartooth Pass at an altitude of 3,337 metres.

The road winds through alpine landscapes, past snow-capped peaks, crystal clear mountain lakes and wide plateaus. Behind each curve a new panorama opens up – one reason why the Beartooth Highway is always counted among the most beautiful road trips in North America.

Red Lodge is the ideal starting point for this trip. The charming small town connects Western Flair with a lively restaurant and art scene and invites you to stop by before or after the pass.

At a glance

Category | Information

Length of the Beartooth Highway | approx. 110 km

Highest point | 3,337 m

Ideal stay | 1–2 days

Fifth-wheel access | Check your vehicle, specific campsite and approach road.

Landscape | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Photography | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Panorama road | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Beartooth Highway

The entire route is a sight in itself.

On the way you'll be waiting:

spectacular serpentines

Alpine mountain lakes

Falls

Wide plateaus

Snow-covered peaks – even in summer

Plan enough time for photo stops, because almost every curve offers a new panorama.

Beartooth Pass

The pass is one of the highest paved roads in the United States.

From the viewpoints, an impressive view opens up over the Rocky Mountains.

Even in July, snow fields can still lie here.

Rock Creek Vista Point

One of the most famous viewpoints along the route.

From the platform, you can see deep into the valley and onto the spectacular serpentines of the highway.

An ideal place for a break and impressive photos.

Red Lodge

The historic Main Street forms the heart of the city.

Here you can find:

historic brick building

Small boutiques

Art galleries

Cafés

Breweries

Food & drink

Red Lodge looks relaxed and authentic – a perfect place to end a day of travel.

Things to do

Panoramic ride over the Beartooth Highway

Photographing at the numerous viewpoints

Short hiking tours to Bergseen

Wildlife observation

City stroll through Red Lodge

Visit to local breweries

Watch the stars in the mountains

Shopping

Red Lodge offers several small shops with regional products and outdoor equipment.

Recommended are:

Beartooth Market

Red Lodge Hardware

local outdoor shops

Souvenir shops along Main Street

For larger purchases you should already shop in Bozeman or Billings.

Carbon County Steakhouse

A popular steakhouse with regional meat and rustic ambience.

Red Lodge Pizza Co.

Perfect for an uncomplicated meal after a long day of travel.

Besides pizza there are also home-brewed beers.

Café Regis

A popular breakfast restaurant with fresh ingredients from the region.

Ideal for an early start on the Beartooth Highway.

Mas Taco

Small restaurant with Mexican cuisine and creative tacos.

A welcome change to classic American cuisine.

Red Lodge KOA Journey

Very well maintained campsite with full hook-up and spacious pitches.

Ideal for Fifth Wheels.

Greenough Lake Campground

A natural campsite in the mountains, just a few minutes outside of Red Lodge.

Beartooth Lake Campground

A simple forest service campsite directly on the highway.

Perfect for those who want to stay in the middle of the mountains.

Practical tips

Get informed before driving over the road condition – the highway is usually only open from the end of May to the beginning of October.

Start early in the morning to have enough time for stops and hiking tours.

Even in summer, the weather can change quickly to over 3,000 meters. Warm clothes therefore always belong in your luggage.

For the pass it is recommended to use the pickup truck and leave the Fifth Wheel at a campsite in Red Lodge.

Tank completely up before the driveway – there are only a few supply options on the road.

Our recommendation

The Beartooth Highway is far more than just a connection to Yellowstone National Park – it's a destination for itself. Those who travel the route without time pressure, stop at viewpoints and let the alpine landscape affect themselves quickly understand why many call it the most beautiful panoramic road in the USA.

Hikes & walks nearby.

All hiking ideas →

No detailed trail matches these preferences. Try Any duration or Any route type. Search the trail sources below for this area.

Trail details checked against park sources in September 2026. Check current closures, weather, permits and any return transport before setting out.

Before your visit, check current opening times, trail conditions, permits and campground availability with the park or local operator.

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