Visiting the Beartooth Mountains, USA

The Beartooth Mountains straddle the Montana-Wyoming border, a vast high plateau of tundra, granite and alpine lakes crowned by Granite Peak at 3,904 metres, the highest summit in Montana. Much of the range lies in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, one of the largest wilderness areas in the northern Rockies, while the spectacular Beartooth Highway switchbacks across its shoulder. This is big, open, serious mountain country.

Why go

The plateau itself is the attraction: mile after mile of alpine tundra dotted with hundreds of lakes, wildflower meadows and sweeping views into Yellowstone country. Granite Peak is a coveted climbing objective, a long day or overnight involving real scrambling. The Beartooth Highway, one of America’s great mountain drives, climbs to nearly 3,400 metres with pullouts over the whole range. Wildlife includes grizzlies, elk and mountain goats.

Best time to visit

July to September is generally the season, with the high country usually snow-free and the highway typically open through the summer months. Wildflowers peak in July and August. Snow can linger on north-facing slopes into July, and September brings colder nights and the first autumn storms. Always check current highway and trail conditions before travelling.

Getting around

Red Lodge in Montana and Cooke City near Yellowstone are the main gateways, linked by the Beartooth Highway in summer. Trailheads dot both sides of the range, reached on paved and gravel roads. The wilderness interior is walk-in only, with trails leading onto the plateau from many directions. Distances are long, so most visits are multi-day trips.

Good to know

• The highway is seasonal and can close in bad weather even in summer. Check current conditions before driving it.
• Afternoon storms sweep the plateau fast. Be off the high ground by midday and carry full rain gear.
• This is grizzly country. Store food correctly, carry bear spray and follow local guidance on camping.
• Altitude is high across the plateau, often above 3,000 metres. Pace yourself and drink plenty of water.
• Granite Peak is a serious undertaking with exposed scrambling. Attempt it only with experience, good weather and an early start.

The Beartooths are the northern Rockies at full scale: endless tundra, deep wilderness and a highway through the sky. Visit in high summer, respect the weather, and give the plateau the days it deserves.