The Beartooth Highway offers a captivating mountain driving tour that connects Red Lodge, Montana, to the gates of Yellowstone National Park. Priced at $339 per vehicle, this self-guided adventure showcases some of the region’s most breathtaking scenery, from the Bears Tooth View to the Clay Butte Lookout. Travelers can enjoy the experience through an audio tour provided by the Action Tour Guide app, allowing them to explore at their own pace. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended camping adventure, the Beartooth Highway promises an unforgettable journey through one of America’s most picturesque landscapes. But what makes this drive truly remarkable goes beyond the stunning vistas and wildlife sightings.
Key Points
- Explore the iconic Beartooth Highway, a self-guided tour connecting Red Lodge, MT to Yellowstone NP, priced at Kč339 per vehicle.
- Discover breathtaking natural wonders along the route, including the Bears Tooth View, Clay Butte Lookout, Island Lake, and the West Summit Overlook.
- Use the Action Tour Guide app for an immersive audio tour and offline navigation, with automatic location-based storytelling and all-day support.
- Flexibility to start and complete the tour on your own schedule, with a valid duration of 365 days from activation.
- Prepare for the tour with a charged smartphone, downloaded app, and power bank, and follow the instructions provided after booking.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The self-guided Beartooth Highway driving tour connects Red Lodge, Montana, to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park.
Priced at Kč339 per person, the tour offers a reserve now and pay later option, along with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour is valid for 365 days from the first activation, and one purchase covers the entire car, not just per person.
With the self-guided format, travelers can explore the route at their own pace, whether in a single day or over multiple days without the need to rebook.
Highlights and Scenic Stops
Several breathtaking scenic stops dot the Beartooth Highway driving tour.
The Bears Tooth View showcases an iconic, jagged rock formation.
Travelers can enjoy expansive views from the Clay Butte Lookout via a 3-mile unpaved road.
The popular Island Lake is ideal for camping, hiking, boating, and fishing.
The Vista Point observation site offers panoramic views of the Rock Creek Valley.
At the tour’s highest point of 10,947 feet, the West Summit Overlook provides breathtaking vistas.
The self-guided tour allows visitors to explore these highlights at their own pace and discover the natural beauty of this stunning mountain landscape.
Tour App and Features
How does the Action Tour Guide app enhance the Beartooth Highway driving experience?
The app provides an immersive audio tour and offline maps, allowing travelers to fully engage with the stunning scenery. The stories play automatically based on location, sharing unique tales and historical insights.
With no need for cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity, the offline capabilities ensure seamless navigation. Adventurers can explore at their own pace, using the app’s flexible schedule to experience the route over multiple days.
An all-day support line is available for any assistance needed. The engaging storytelling and hands-free navigation through the Action Tour Guide app elevate the Beartooth Highway journey.
Preparation and Requirements
Adventurers preparing for the Beartooth Highway driving tour will need a charged smartphone, their own vehicle, the downloaded Action Tour Guide app, and a power bank.
The tour starts at 207 Main St, Cooke City, MT 59020, USA. Participants should:
- Follow the audio instructions and route after starting the tour.
- Enjoy the flexibility of using the tour on any day or over multiple days without rebooking.
- Check their email for app download instructions before arrival.
The tour doesn’t include transportation, parking fees, food/drinks, or entry tickets.
Visitors can refer to Action Tour Guide’s Help page for any FAQs.
Scenic Jagged Rock Formation
The iconic Bears Tooth View, a jagged rock formation, is one of the most photographed landmarks along the Beartooth Highway. This dramatic peak, reaching over 11,000 feet, juts into the sky with its distinctive serrated profile. Visitors are captivated by its rugged beauty and the opportunity to snap memorable photos. To better understand the scale and grandeur of this natural wonder, consider the following visual reference:
| Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 11,000+ feet |
| Width | 1 mile across |
| Age | Millions of years old |
| Rock Type | Sedimentary and igneous |
| Color | Gray, tan, and black |
The Bears Tooth View is a must-see highlight on any driving tour of the Beartooth Highway.
Expansive Views From Lookout
After traversing the winding roads, travelers are rewarded with the breathtaking panoramic vistas from the Clay Butte Lookout. This 3-mile unpaved road leads to an observation site offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
The lookout provides:
- Unobstructed panoramas of the Beartooth Mountains and valleys below.
- A chance to spot wildlife such as bighorn sheep and black bears.
- Ample parking and a viewing platform for optimal photography.
Visitors can fully enjoy the majestic scenery and capture the essence of the Beartooth Highway experience from this elevated vantage point.
Popular Alpine Lake Experiences
One of the most popular stops along the Beartooth Highway is Island Lake, an alpine oasis nestled amidst the rugged peaks.
This scenic lake offers a wealth of outdoor activities for visitors. Hikers can explore the surrounding trails, while campers can set up tents at the designated campgrounds.
The cool, clear waters are ideal for swimming, fishing, and boating. With breathtaking mountain vistas as the backdrop, Island Lake provides the perfect setting for a peaceful escape into nature.
Whether you’re seeking a day hike or a multi-day camping adventure, this alpine gem is a must-visit destination on the Beartooth Highway driving tour.
Breathtaking Views at Overlook
As visitors ascend the Beartooth Highway, they’re rewarded with a series of breathtaking overlooks that showcase the region’s dramatic landscapes.
One standout is the West Summit Overlook, which sits at an impressive 10,947 feet and offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Other notable stops include:
- Vista Point: an observation site with sweeping vistas of the Rock Creek Valley.
- Bears Tooth View: an iconic jagged rock formation that draws the eye.
- Clay Butte Lookout: accessible via a 3-mile unpaved road, providing expansive views of the Beartooth Mountains.
These overlooks allow travelers to fully enjoy the Beartooth’s majestic natural beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Pets Allowed on the Beartooth Highway Tour?
Pets are generally allowed on the Beartooth Highway tour. However, visitors should check with the tour provider for any specific restrictions or guidelines regarding bringing pets along. Proper precautions and consideration for other travelers are recommended when bringing pets on the tour.
What Is the Estimated Driving Time for the Entire Route?
The estimated driving time for the entire Beartooth Highway self-guided tour route is approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on the number of scenic stops and time spent exploring along the way.
Can the Tour Be Taken in Either Direction?
The tour can be taken in either direction along the route as it’s self-guided. Participants can start from either Red Lodge, MT or Yellowstone’s NE entrance and follow the audio instructions provided in the mobile app.
Is There Cell Phone Coverage Throughout the Entire Route?
The tour app works offline, so cell phone coverage isn’t required along the entire route. However, travelers should note that cellular service may be spotty in remote mountain areas.
Are There Any Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Along the Way?
There are no dedicated electric vehicle charging stations along the Beartooth Highway route. Drivers of electric vehicles should plan accordingly and ensure their vehicle has sufficient charge before starting the tour.
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Recap
The Beartooth Highway offers a breathtaking mountain driving tour that showcases stunning scenic stops, panoramic vistas, and diverse wildlife. With an immersive audio tour, this self-guided adventure allows for exploration at your own pace, making it perfect for both day trips and extended camping adventures along one of America’s most picturesque highways.