Hear the Call of the Open Road? Beartooth Pass Awaits!
If the rumble of a V-twin is music to your ears and the sight of endless mountain vistas makes your heart race, then listen up: Beartooth Pass is calling your name, loud and clear! This legendary ribbon of asphalt, officially US Highway 212, is consistently ranked as a premier motorcycle route in the entire country. Stretching for 68 breathtaking miles from our very own Red Lodge to the charming outpost of Cooke City (right near Yellowstone's Northeast Entrance), it's an experience that belongs on every serious rider's bucket list. Known for its spectacular alpine scenery, abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, and climbs that take you to nearly 11,000 feet, it's pure two-wheeled nirvana. And where better to start and end this epic journey than The Yodeler Motel – your "basecamp for any adventure," especially this kind of high-altitude, high-adrenaline thrill ride!
What Makes Beartooth a Bucket-List Ride?
Why do motorcyclists speak of Beartooth Pass in hushed, reverent tones?
The Challenge: This ain't your grandma's Sunday cruise (unless your grandma is a total badass biker, in which case, props to her!). Get ready for a thrilling series of hairpin switchbacks, significant elevation changes (plan for a 15-20 degree temperature drop from Red Lodge to the summit!), and dramatic drop-offs that will keep you laser-focused.
The Scenery: Prepare for sensory overload, in the best possible way. You'll be treated to breathtaking valley views, traverse open high alpine plateaus dotted with glacial lakes, wind through lush forested valleys, and cruise past cascading waterfalls. It's one of the highest paved roads in the entire Rocky Mountain range.
The Reputation: The Beartooth Highway isn't just locally famous; it's often hailed as one of the most scenic drives in the entire United States. Its designation as an All-American Road underscores its national significance and undeniable beauty. It's this potent combination of challenging, engaging riding and absolutely unparalleled, jaw-dropping scenery that cements its legendary status among the motorcycling community.
Timing Your Ride: Seasons and Weather on the Pass
Timing is everything when tackling a high-altitude pass:
Best Time: Generally, late spring, summer, and early fall are your prime windows. The pass is typically open from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October, but this is ALWAYS weather dependent.2 Many riders find June through September to be the sweet spot.
Early Season (Late May/Early June): Want a truly unique experience? Ride early in the season for the thrilling chance to cruise between snowbanks that can tower 15 feet or more! Be warned, though: June can be the most unpredictable month for adverse weather, sometimes producing enough snow to temporarily close the pass. Snow walls in June? Only on the Beartooth!
Mid-Summer (July/August): Expect less snowpack (though some patches will likely remain at the highest elevations) and generally warmer temperatures.
Late Season (Late September/October): You might encounter colder temperatures and an increased chance of an early snowfall.
Crucial Tip: Always Check Conditions! Weather can change with alarming speed at these altitudes. Before you even think about swinging a leg over your bike, check the latest road and weather reports.
Rider Tips for Tackling the Beartooth
Listen up, road warriors, here's some wisdom for your ride:
Gear Up: Dress in layers to accommodate those significant temperature changes. Good quality rain gear is a very smart idea – sudden showers (and even hail!) are not uncommon at high elevations. And don't forget to stay hydrated, especially if you're not used to the altitude.
Know Your Skill Level: Be honest with yourself. You need to be comfortable and proficient with continuous hairpin turns and tight switchbacks. Keep your eyes on the road when navigating tricky sections; there are plenty of designated pull-offs to safely stop and gawk at the scenery.
Pace Yourself: This isn't a race. Allow at least 3 hours for a one-way trip, and probably closer to half a day if you plan on making frequent stops for photos and general awe-struck moments. It's a marathon of majestic views, not a sprint.
Consider Riding it Twice: Many riders love the pass so much they ride it in both directions, as the views and experience can be quite different. Some favor the west-to-east route (Cooke City to Red Lodge) for its particular perspectives.
Safety First, Always:
Don't ride beyond your abilities or comfort zone.
Proper cornering technique is key: slow down before you enter the corner, then lean your bike and gently roll on the throttle through the turn. This keeps you stable.
Be hyper-aware of your surroundings. Watch for blind corners, potential debris on the road (rocks, sand), and wildlife. Moose, deer, elk, mountain goats, and even bears have been spotted on or near the highway.
Keep an eye out for lingering ice or wet patches, especially on the shady sides of the mountain, even in summer.
Avoid target fixation: Focus your vision on where you want to go (your path through the turn), not on potential hazards like oncoming traffic or obstacles. The collective wisdom from seasoned Beartooth riders always emphasizes caution, thorough preparation, and a healthy respect for the road's inherent challenges. This approach ensures you can fully and safely enjoy this truly epic experience.
Must-Stop Spots for Bikers on the Pass
Don't just blast through! Make time for these incredible viewpoints and landmarks:
Rock Creek Vista Point: Offers absolutely incredible canyon views.
Summit of Beartooth Pass (10,947 ft): The obligatory photo op at the top of the world!
Top of the World Store: An iconic stop at 9,400 feet for fuel (always check availability!), snacks, gifts, and those all-important bragging rights.
Clay Butte Lookout: A worthy side trip up a 3-mile packed dirt road leads to an old fire lookout tower, now a visitor center, with panoramic views.
Bear's Tooth Sign/Viewpoint: See the jagged peak that gives the highway its name.
Montana/Wyoming State Line: Another classic photo opportunity.
Cooke City-Silver Gate, MT: These charming, small mountain towns mark the western end of the Beartooth Highway, offering food, gas, and lodging options if you're continuing into Yellowstone.
Red Lodge: Your Biker-Friendly Base
Red Lodge itself is a very motorcycle-friendly town, and you're likely to see plenty of other riders during your visit, especially in the summer months. After an exhilarating day conquering the Pass, The Yodeler Motel offers a comfortable, welcoming spot to park your iron horse, kick back, and relive the day's adventures. (And yes, we've got parking for your prized possession!)
Is the Beartooth Pass calling your inner daredevil? Answer it! And when the day's incredible ride is done, rest your weary bones and swap stories at The Yodeler Motel. Book your biker's haven today!