Beartooth Highway Now Open For The Season Following Brief Weather Delay

Following a brief delay caused by a winter storm, the Beartooth Highway (US-212) is officially open for the season. The opening of the Wyoming section of the highway stretching from the junction of WY-296 (Chief Joseph Scenic Byway) to the Montana state line was originally scheduled for May 22, but was pushed back to Saturday, May 23, to allow crews to manage severe weather conditions.

Yellowstone road crews, working in close coordination with Montana teams, successfully cleared heavy snowdrifts across the road and determined conditions are now practical and safe for travel. The entire stretch of the scenic highway from Red Lodge to Cooke City, Montana, is now accessible to the public.

Important Safety Advisory for Drivers: Because high-alpine weather can change rapidly, travelers should note that temporary travel restrictions or full road closures can still occur at any time without notice. Drivers are urged to:

• Prepare for winter driving conditions.
• Maintain flexible travel plans.
• Stay alert for rapidly shifting weather patterns.

Before heading out, travelers are strongly encouraged to check the latest road status and real-time updates on the Montana and Wyoming departments of transportation websites.

About US Hwy 212 Corridor – Beartooth Highway:

Highway 212 is a very popular road and offers many opportunities for recreation, including hiking, camping and fishing. This road is also called the Beartooth Scenic Highway and many people consider this one of the prettiest roads in America.

Often windy, the drive takes a minimum of two to three hours but can be stretched out and enjoyed as a day trip or multi-day trip.  Several campgrounds, scenic pullouts, interpretive displays and day hikes line the Beartooth corridor.

Construction of the highway began in 1932 and was completed June 14, 1936. Since then, the Beartooth Highway has often been referred to as one of the most beautiful mountain drives in America. Driving south from Red Lodge, MT, the highway enters the Custer Gallatin National forest and climbs the switchbacks to the Montana/Wyoming state line. Make sure you stop at Vista Point for incredible views of the main canyon of Rock Creek. At the state line, visitors enter the Shoshone National Forest. Climb to Beartooth Pass at 10,947 feet and pass many lakes and scenic pullouts. The road brings you back to Montana, where you again enter the Custer Gallatin National Forest, just before the town of Cooke City, MT.

Plan your trip

The Beartooth Highway is open from Memorial Day to October 15 (weather dependent). Snow usually remains at higher elevations until early to mid-July. In May and June, as well as late-September into October, expect winter temperatures and the chance of snow.  Plan ahead and bring warm clothes. The State of Montana Department of Transportation closes the Beartooth Highway every winter. If traveling close to the open/close dates always check in advance, conditions can change quickly. Detailed road information and Beartooth Pass weather forecast, more about the Beartooth Highway.

The Greater Yellowstone Area has a healthy bear population. When hiking, carry bear spray and know how to use it.  Whether out for a stroll or a multi-day trek, all hikes venturing from Beartooth Pass lead into bear country. Please be aware of regulations and restrictions for both the Custer Gallatin and Shoshone National Forests.   

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