Beartooth Pass from Red Lodge

This route is considered difficult, primarily due to its significant length and high altitude. It's a sustained 30-mile climb from Red Lodge, gaining over 5,000 feet to a summit of nearly 11,000 feet. While the average grade isn't extremely steep, the sheer duration and reduced oxygen at higher elevations make it a substantial physical challenge. Proper training and gearing are highly recommended.

The road surface is generally reported to be excellent and smooth, making for a pleasant ride. The climb features a six-mile series of spectacular switchbacks starting around mile 14. After about 22 miles, the road breaks above the treeline into stunning alpine terrain, offering panoramic views and a high-alpine experience.

The Beartooth Pass is typically open for cycling from late May or early June through early October. The road is closed due to snow for much of the year, usually from October to May. The summer months offer the most reliable conditions, but be prepared for variable weather even then, especially at higher elevations.

No specific permits are required to cycle the Beartooth Pass itself. The route travels along US Highway 212, which is part of the National Scenic Byways system and passes through the Custer Gallatin National Forest. There are no entrance fees for accessing the highway or the forest in this area for recreational cycling.

You can typically find parking in Red Lodge, Montana, before beginning your ascent. Specific parking areas may vary, but many cyclists park near the start of US Highway 212 in town, which is the beginning of the climb.

The route is renowned for its spectacular scenery. You'll pass the State Line Montana/Wyoming, marking your entry into Wyoming. The summit, known as Beartooth Pass, offers breathtaking views of glacial cirques and alpine lakes. The entire 54-mile section of the Beartooth Highway is an All-American Road, celebrated for its stunning vistas.

While the Beartooth Highway itself is a public road, bringing dogs along for a road cycling trip can be challenging due to the nature of the activity and traffic. If you plan to stop at viewpoints or pull-offs, dogs should always be kept on a leash. Always ensure your pet's safety and comfort, especially with the high altitude and potential for wildlife encounters in the surrounding Custer Gallatin National Forest.

Given the significant elevation gain and high-alpine environment, weather can change rapidly. It's crucial to bring layers, including a windbreaker or rain jacket, even on a sunny day. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and plenty of water are essential. Due to the sustained climb, adequate nutrition and spare tubes/repair kits are also highly recommended.

Amenities are very limited once you leave Red Lodge. The route ascends into a high-alpine wilderness area, so it's best to carry all the water and food you'll need for the entire ride. Plan to refuel and resupply in Red Lodge before you start, as there are no cafes or dedicated water stops directly on the pass itself.

While this is primarily a road cycling route on US Highway 212, it passes through an area rich with hiking trails. You might see trailheads for paths like the Lower Parkside Trail, Beartooth Loop - Little Rock Creek Trail, Twin Lakes Trail, and Greenough Lake Trail, among others, which branch off into the surrounding wilderness areas.

The Beartooth Pass is consistently recognized as one of the top bike climbs in the nation for several reasons: its status as an All-American Road, its stunning transition from canyons to exposed high-alpine plateaus, its significant length (it's the 10th longest climb in the US), and the breathtaking views of glacial features and lakes that unfold as you ascend.