Beartooth Pass
Beartooth Pass is a spectacular high-elevation crossing of the Beartooth Mountains connecting southern Montana to northwestern Wyoming via U.S. Highway 212.At over 10,000 feet, it offers dramatic alpine scenery, switchbacking descents, and access to national parks and wilderness areas. Drive it for _scenic vistas_ and alpine regrowth; remember seasonal closures and variable weather.
Learn More
Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Rocky Mountains |
| Subregion | Northern Rockies |
| Country | United StatesMontanaWyoming |
| State | MontanaWyoming |
| County | Custer National ForestRed Lodge |
| Timezone | AmericaDenver |
| Latitude | 45.0647 |
| Longitude | -109.7217 |
| Maps |
7:12 PM LOCAL TIMEBeartooth Pass is a legendary trans-mountain route linking Red Lodge in Montana to Cody and the eastern entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Sitting at an elevation of approximately 10,947 feet (3,337 meters), the pass is part of U.S. Highway 212 and traverses the rugged Beartooth Mountains within the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. The drive is marked by steep switchbacks, wildflower-carpeted meadows, and panoramic views of snow-capped ridges and glacial cirques. Winter closures are common from October into late spring, so check current road status; under good weather conditions, it's an accessible high-country summit offering adventure driving and culturally significant landscape. Beyond the pass itself, travelers can explore nearby trailheads, alpine lakes, and backcountry routes, but be prepared for rapid weather changes and high altitude symptoms. Safety is key, and low overnight temperatures, snowmelt runoff, and strong winds can pose challenges. The pass is not just a connector—it's a high-elevation landscape that defines the region's natural character.
All content was written by our AI and may contain a few mistakes. We may earn commissions on some links. Last updated: Sun Dec 14, 2025, 2:55 AM