Beartooth Highway And Yellowstone National Park
Beartooth Highway And Yellowstone National Park
An Unforgettable Road Trip
Traveling from Billings to Yellowstone National Park by way of the Beartooth Highway turns a drive into an unforgettable adventure. Leaving the city’s open streets and sandstone cliffs behind, you’ll head southwest toward Red Lodge, a picturesque mountain town that makes an ideal stop before the climb. It’s a great place to top off the tank, grab a bite or browse local shops with a Western touch.
From Red Lodge, the Beartooth Highway begins its dramatic rise into the high country. Often ranked among the most scenic drives in the nation, it reaches nearly 11,000 feet, passing alpine lakes, rugged peaks and broad valleys. Curving switchbacks reveal one breathtaking view after another, with overlooks and pullouts perfect for taking photos or enjoying a picnic. Wildlife is part of the experience too, with chances to spot mountain goats, marmots and sometimes even moose.
Once over the pass, the road winds down into Cooke City, a small yet vibrant mountain town filled with cafes, shops and outdoor outfitters. From there, it’s only a short drive to the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. This quieter gateway quickly leads to some of the park’s most stunning areas, including the wildlife-rich Lamar Valley and the park’s famous geysers and hot springs.
This route offers far more than just a way to get to Yellowstone. The Beartooth Highway delivers soaring mountain views, crisp alpine air and a sense of adventure that sets the tone for exploring America’s first national park.