The short answer
One of the great American drives: east to Red Lodge, over the Beartooth Highway to Cooke City, then back through Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley, Mammoth and Paradise Valley. Split it over two days with a night in Red Lodge or Cooke City.
The route
Stops along the way
- 1
Columbus & Absarokee
Turn south toward the Beartooths on MT-78.
- 2
Red Lodge
Overnight option at the foot of the pass.
Beartooth Highway & Red Lodge guide → - 3
Beartooth Pass
10,947 ft — alpine lakes and snowfields.
Beartooth Highway & Red Lodge guide → - 4
Cooke City
Fuel and Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance.
- 5
Lamar Valley & Mammoth
Wildlife, then terraces before Gardiner.
Lamar Valley guide →
By van
Road notes for van drivers
- Check MDT 511 and WYDOT — snow can close the pass even in summer.
- Use low gears on long descents to protect brakes.
- There’s no fuel between Red Lodge and Cooke City.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Beartooth Highway take to drive?
The 68-mile highway itself takes 2–3 hours with stops; the full loop from Bozeman is best over two days.
Can you drive the Beartooth Highway in a big van?
Yes — it’s fully paved. Take switchbacks slowly and use pullouts for photos.
Destinations on this trip
