Beartooth Highway
Cooke City to Red Lodge on the Beartooth Highway (Summer)
65 miles
n Cooke City, Montana, stop and grab a snack, some water, and a full tank of gas for the next adventure. The scenic Beartooth Highway is one of the most scenic routes in America and is known for some unbelievable views. We suggest setting aside 3-4 hours for this 62-mile drive. Head east out of Cooke City towards Red Lodge, Montana.
POINTS OF INTEREST ALONG THE BEARTOOTH HIGHWAY
- Beartooth Highway Orientation Site
Learn about the Beartooth Mountains, early mining history, and the Beartooth Highway.
- Clark’s Fork Trailhead and Picnic Area
Just before passing over into Wyoming this stop is a great place to enjoy horseback riding, camping and a Nez Perce’ Interpretive Site.
- Lake Creek Falls
A powerful waterfall that flows under the Beartooth Highway. A short hike takes visitors to the pedestrian bridge to get a better view of the falls.
- Pilot and Index Peak Overlook
One of the most photographed views along the Beartooth Highway.
- Beartooth Bridge and Falls
Beartooth Lake flows under a historic bridge built in the 30s, turning into a stunning waterfall. A short walk here will get visitors to the Beartooth Lake which offers fishing, canoeing, and a view of Beartooth Butte.
- Top of the World Store
At almost halfway through the Beartooth Highway, the Top of the World Store offers travelers, food, fuel and even a place to stay overnight. It is roughly 25 miles east of Cooke City on the Beartooth Highway.
- West Beartooth Pass Overlook
This is highest point along the Beartooth Highway, at 10,947 feet above sea level. Even in the summer, this stop can be chilly, so bring a jacket.
- Gardner Lake Pullout and Trailhead
Stop here for the Beartooth Loop National Recreation Trail. Also a great place to view the rock formation, Bear’s Tooth, that the highway is named after.
- Rock Creek Vista Point Rest Area and Interpretive Trail
Experience incredible views of Rock Creek Canyon and Hell Roaring Plateau. This point offers a short trail that is wheelchair accessible.