Beartooth Highway is a National Scenic Byway that runs through national forests and mountains spanning Montana and Wyoming. The road winds up to a summit of over 10,900 feet and is surrounded by gorgeous vistas with peaks over 12,000 feet in elevation. This road is on the must-ride list of many auto and motorcycle enthusiasts as well as a favorite of hikers, campers and cyclists.
Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, Wyoming 296, intersects Beartooth and is another must-ride road. Smooth sweeping curves and easy switchbacks take you to the lookout at Dead Indian Pass.
We camped near the intersection of these two scenic byways. There are several National Forest campgrounds available. If you are in a tent, check first if they are allowed – some campgrounds are RV only, perhaps due to bear activity. We moto-camped with our tent at free forest campground near Lily Lake that provided a fire ring, picnic table and bear box.
Beartooth Highway is a portion of US 212 which runs from Yellowstone National Park’s northeast entrance through Cooke City. The Beartooth Corridor is just east of Cooke City to just west of the town of Red Lodge.
Camping near Beartooth and Chief Joseph
Campfire at provided fire pit. Be sure to fully extinguish with water! 
Lily Lake 
The road to Lily Lake Campground.
Crazy Creek Campground 
Pilot and Index Peaks 
Pilot and Index Peaks in background.
Beartooth Highway – Beartooth Pass
Another couple enjoying Beartooth on their Italian beauties. 
Beartooth Pass viewpoint 
Jason’s BMW F800GS at Vista point on Beartooth Pass 
Katie’s Ducati Hypermotard at Beartooth overlook. 
A cute surprise looking down from Rock Creek Vista on Beartooth Highway. 
There is no wrong answer.
Riding through the town of Red Lodge, Montana. 
Lunch stop in Red Lodge, Montana.
Chief Joseph Scenic Byway
Motorcycle riding Chief Joseph Highway. Fun ride, gorgeous views. (lots of great stops for snacks!)
