Beartooth Highway RV Trip Through Montana and Wyoming
Crossing the Beartooth Pass in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, this scenic route provides awe-inspiring vistas of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes.
An RV trip along the Beartooth Highway in Montana and Wyoming promises an exhilarating adventure through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United States, making it a highly recommended journey for RV travelers seeking thrills and natural beauty. This legendary route, often referred to as “the most beautiful drive in America,” winds its way through the rugged peaks of the Beartooth Mountains and the pristine wilderness of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, offering panoramic vistas, alpine lakes, and a sense of wild grandeur that is truly unmatched.
One of the most compelling reasons to take on an RV trip along the Beartooth Highway is the sheer magnificence of the scenery. As you ascend into the mountains, you’ll be treated to jaw-dropping views of towering peaks, sweeping valleys, and crystal-clear alpine lakes, each turn of the road revealing a new vista that seems to stretch to the horizon and beyond. Whether you’re gazing out over the majestic Beartooth Plateau or marveling at the rugged beauty of the Rock Creek Valley, every moment on this iconic route is a reminder of the awe-inspiring power of nature.
Moreover, the Beartooth Highway offers an abundance of outdoor adventures for RV enthusiasts. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a passionate angler, or simply someone who enjoys immersing yourself in the great outdoors, the Beartooth Mountains provide endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. With numerous hiking trails, fishing streams, and scenic overlooks lining the route, there’s no shortage of ways to connect with the natural world and experience the thrill of adventure amidst some of the most pristine wilderness in the country.
Beyond its scenic beauty and recreational offerings, the Beartooth Highway is steeped in history and culture, adding another layer of depth to the RV journey. As you make your way through the mountains, you’ll encounter historic sites, charming mountain towns, and remnants of the area’s rich heritage, each offering glimpses into the region’s storied past and vibrant local culture. Whether you’re exploring the quaint shops and galleries of Red Lodge, Montana, or learning about the indigenous peoples who have called these mountains home for centuries, there’s something for everyone to discover along this iconic route.
But perhaps what truly sets an RV trip along the Beartooth Highway apart is the sense of freedom and adventure it inspires. With your home on wheels, you have the flexibility to linger in your favorite spots, explore hidden gems off the beaten path, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re camping beneath the stars in a remote wilderness campground or waking up to the sound of elk bugling in the early morning light, the Beartooth Highway invites you to embrace the spirit of adventure and immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the Rocky Mountains. So, if you’re seeking an unforgettable RV journey that combines breathtaking scenery, outdoor exploration, and rich cultural experiences, look no further than the Beartooth Highway in Montana and Wyoming. Your mountain adventure awaits.
Traveling in an RV on the Beartooth Highway, which stretches from Red Lodge, Montana to Cooke City, Montana, passing through the Beartooth Pass in Wyoming, is an exhilarating and scenic adventure.
Here are some tips for a safe and enjoyable journey:
Know the road: The Beartooth Highway is a winding mountain road that reaches elevations of over 10,000 feet, offering stunning views of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness and surrounding mountains. Familiarize yourself with the route and its characteristics, including steep grades, sharp curves, and high elevations.
Check road conditions: Before setting out, check for any road closures, construction zones, or weather advisories along the Beartooth Highway. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, so be prepared for potential hazards such as snow, ice, or high winds, especially in the shoulder seasons.
Choose the right RV: Consider the size and type of RV that’s suitable for driving on the Beartooth Highway. Smaller RVs or camper vans are more maneuverable on winding mountain roads and tight turns compared to larger motorhomes. Make sure your RV is in good mechanical condition before taking on the journey.
Drive cautiously: The Beartooth Highway features steep grades, sharp curves, and narrow lanes, so drive at a safe and steady pace. Use lower gears to control your speed when descending steep inclines, and be prepared for slow-moving traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Watch for wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as deer, elk, or bighorn sheep, while driving on the Beartooth Highway. Wildlife crossings and sightings are common in mountainous areas, so reduce your speed and stay alert, especially near dawn and dusk.
Use pullouts: Take advantage of designated pullouts and overlooks along the Beartooth Highway to safely stop and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. These areas also provide opportunities for rest breaks, stretching your legs, and taking photos.
Check for RV-friendly stops: Identify RV-friendly campgrounds, RV parks, and rest areas along the Beartooth Highway where you can overnight or take a break. Some areas may have limited RV facilities, so plan your stops accordingly.
Be prepared for high elevation: The Beartooth Highway reaches elevations of over 10,000 feet, so be prepared for changes in altitude and potential effects of high elevation, such as reduced oxygen levels and colder temperatures. Dress in layers and stay hydrated.
Know where to turn around: Some sections of the Beartooth Highway may have tight turns or limited space for turning around, especially for larger RVs. Plan your route carefully and identify suitable turnaround points before reaching challenging sections of the road.
Enjoy the journey: Finally, take the time to savor the breathtaking beauty of the Beartooth Highway and its surrounding landscapes. Embrace the slower pace of RV travel, and make lasting memories of your journey through one of the most scenic mountain passes in the United States.
By following these tips and exercising caution, you can have a safe and memorable RV journey on the Beartooth Highway, experiencing some of the most stunning scenery that Montana and Wyoming have to offer.
When traveling on the Beartooth Highway in an RV, there are several RV parks and campgrounds located along or near the route that offer convenient accommodations and amenities for travelers.
Here are some RV parks to consider when traveling on the Beartooth Highway:
Red Lodge KOA Journey (Red Lodge, Montana): Located near the northern end of the Beartooth Highway, this KOA campground offers full hook-up RV sites, cabins, and amenities such as a pool, hot tub, and dog park. It’s a convenient base for exploring Red Lodge and the surrounding area.
Mountain View Campground (Red Lodge, Montana): Situated just outside Red Lodge, this campground offers RV sites with full hook-ups, as well as amenities such as a fishing pond, playground, and hiking trails. It’s a peaceful retreat with scenic views of the Beartooth Mountains.
Red Lodge KOA Campground & Cabins (Red Lodge, Montana): This family-friendly campground offers RV sites with full hook-ups, cabins, and amenities such as a pool, hot tub, and playground. It’s a short drive from the Beartooth Highway and downtown Red Lodge.
Chief Joseph RV Park (Cody, Wyoming): Located near the southern end of the Beartooth Highway, this RV park offers full hook-up sites, cabins, and amenities such as a pool, hot tub, and laundry facilities. It’s a convenient base for exploring Cody and nearby attractions.
Pahaska Tepee Resort & RV Park (Cody, Wyoming): Situated near the east entrance of Yellowstone National Park, this resort offers RV sites with full hook-ups, cabins, and amenities such as a restaurant, gift shop, and horseback riding. It’s a historic destination with scenic views of the Absaroka Mountains.
Yellowstone Valley Inn & RV Park (Wapiti, Wyoming): Located between Cody and Yellowstone National Park, this RV park offers full hook-up sites, cabins, and amenities such as a restaurant, pool, and convenience store. It’s a peaceful retreat with easy access to outdoor recreation and sightseeing.
Rex Hale Campground & RV Park (Cooke City, Montana): Situated near the northeastern entrance of Yellowstone National Park, this campground offers RV sites with full hook-ups, as well as amenities such as a restaurant, convenience store, and fuel station. It’s a convenient stopover for travelers exploring the Beartooth Highway and Yellowstone.
Rock Creek Resort (Red Lodge, Montana): Located along Rock Creek near Red Lodge, this resort offers RV sites with full hook-ups, cabins, and amenities such as a restaurant, lounge, and fishing access. It’s a scenic destination with opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
Soda Butte Campground & RV Park (Cooke City, Montana): Situated near the northeastern entrance of Yellowstone National Park, this campground offers RV sites with full hook-ups, as well as amenities such as a restaurant, gift shop, and fuel station. It’s a convenient stopover for travelers exploring the Beartooth Highway and Yellowstone.
Yellowstone’s Edge RV Park (Livingston, Montana): Located near the northern end of the Beartooth Highway, this RV park offers full hook-up sites, cabins, and amenities such as a pool, hot tub, and fishing access. It’s a scenic destination with easy access to Yellowstone National Park and the Beartooth Mountains.
These are just a few of the RV parks and campgrounds located along or near the Beartooth Highway that provide convenient accommodations for travelers exploring this scenic route through the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. Be sure to book in advance, especially during the peak summer season, to secure your desired site.
This article is part of our series on the Top 10 RV Trips to take in the United States.
Each post in this series is your personal guide to exploring the vast, diverse
landscapes that make America a treasure trove for adventurers. From the
majestic mountains of the Rockies to the serene waters of the Great Lakes, and
the sun-kissed beaches of Florida to the enchanting deserts of the Southwest,
these destinations offer a unique blend of beauty, serenity, and adventure.
Traveling by RV allows us to connect more deeply with these places, turning
every mile into a story and every destination into a chapter of memories. It’s
not just about the sites we see but the experiences that fill our spirits with
joy and wonder. Imagine waking up to a new sunrise over a different part of the
country every morning, your home on wheels providing both comfort and the
thrill of discovery.
Join us as we embark on this remarkable road trip, where freedom meets the
open road, and every turn brings a new opportunity to create lasting memories
with the people we cherish the most. Get ready to ignite your wanderlust and
explore the heart of America, one incredible destination at a time. Read More
