Hotels near Beartooth Pass Highway

Arrival & Pre-Drive

Begin your Beartooth Pass journey early in the morning, ideally by 8:00 AM, to maximize daylight and minimize traffic. Ensure your vehicle is fueled, as services are extremely limited along the route. Check weather forecasts and road conditions before departing; closures due to snow can occur even in summer. Have your camera ready, as the initial ascent offers stunning panoramic views. This is the time for anticipation and the first of many incredible photo opportunities.

Mid-Day Exploration

The middle section of the pass is where you'll find the highest elevations and most dramatic alpine scenery. Plan to stop frequently at designated pull-offs and overlooks, such as the viewpoint near the summit marker at 10,947 feet. Consider short, easy hikes if conditions permit, but always be aware of the altitude and rapidly changing weather. Enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic spot, savoring the tranquility and vastness of the landscape. This segment is the heart of the Beartooth experience.

Post-Drive & Departure

As you descend towards your destination town (either Red Lodge, MT, or Cody, WY), the scenery transitions from stark alpine tundra to forested mountain slopes. Upon arrival, seek out a well-deserved meal and relax. If you drove from Cody to Red Lodge, you'll need to plan your return journey or onward travel. Red Lodge offers a charming main street for exploring shops and galleries. For those returning to Cody, take time to reflect on the day's incredible sights.

Winter

Winter conditions persist on the Beartooth Plateau well into late spring and can return in early fall. The highway is typically closed from mid-October through May due to heavy snowfall and impassable conditions. Temperatures are consistently below freezing, with deep snowdrifts common. Visitors venturing out in late spring or early fall should be prepared for harsh, cold weather and potential blizzard-like conditions.

Spring & early summer

As the pass opens (late May/early June), expect highly variable weather. Daytime temperatures might reach into the 50s or 60s Fahrenheit, but can quickly drop with cloud cover or wind. Snow patches often linger in shaded areas. Visitors should pack insulated layers, waterproof outerwear, hats, and gloves, as even sunny days can feel chilly at elevation. Be prepared for sudden rain showers.

Mid-summer

July and August offer the most pleasant weather, with daytime highs typically ranging from the 60s to low 70s Fahrenheit. However, afternoons can bring thunderstorms, and temperatures can still be cool, especially at higher elevations and windy overlooks. Nights will be cold, often dropping near freezing. Layering is key, and always have rain gear accessible.

Fall season

September and early October can bring crisp, clear days with beautiful fall colors in the lower elevations, though the alpine tundra remains stark. Temperatures begin to drop significantly, with daytime highs often in the 40s and 50s. Snow becomes a more frequent possibility, especially by mid-October. Be prepared for cold winds and rapidly changing conditions, and monitor road closures.

Rain & snow

Rain is common during summer thunderstorms, which can be intense and include hail. Snow can occur at any time of year at these elevations, though it's most likely during the shoulder seasons (late spring, early fall) and winter. Always carry waterproof and windproof outer layers. Snowfall can make driving hazardous and lead to immediate road closures, so checking conditions before and during your drive is crucial.