Beartooth Pass Overlook

Top-of-the-world views at the highway’s 10,947‑ft high point

InsideBeartooth Highway

Overview

Perched at 10,947 feet on the West Summit, Beartooth Pass Overlook is the high point of the Beartooth Highway. It’s a quick pullout with huge, horizon-to-horizon views of tundra, glacial lakes, and jagged peaks—exactly the big‑sky payoff people drive this road for. The short spur leads to the summit sign, an easy photo stop without a real hike.

What You’ll See

Expect classic high-alpine scenery: a broad plateau dotted with lakes and serrated spires. From turnouts near the pass, you can spot the namesake Bear’s Tooth and look back toward Island Lake. In summer, keep an eye among the rocks—you might hear or spot pikas darting between boulders.

Getting There & Parking

A short gravel spur leaves US‑212 right near the crest. Go slow; potholes and ruts are common, and the tiny lot fills quickly. Large RVs and trailers aren’t a great fit here, and vehicles over 40 feet are generally discouraged on the tight switchbacks nearby.

Services

There are virtually no services at the summit. If you need facilities, rely on Rock Creek Vista Point (east side) or the Top of the World store mid-route for toilets and basics.

Weather, Season, and Safety

This road typically opens for the season around late spring and runs into mid‑fall, but early season can bring sudden snow, fog, and short closures—especially in late May and early June. At nearly 11,000 feet, it’s cold and windy even on sunny days. Bring layers, take it slow at altitude, and capture your views when the weather window opens.

Photography Tips

For lighting, late morning through afternoon works well on this treeless summit, while early or late in the day helps with parking and a calmer scene. When clouds stack up, wait a few minutes—breaks often roll through fast.

Wildlife

Along the drive and from nearby overlooks you may spot elk or deer in the meadows below, and the occasional pika in the talus. Enjoy the sightings from a distance and never feed wildlife.

Best Time to Visit

Season: Late spring to mid‑fall, road‑conditions permitting; expect early‑season weather hiccups.
Time of day: Late morning to afternoon offers favorable light; arrive early or late for easier parking.
Day of week: Weekdays are typically quieter than weekends during peak summer.

Pros

Highest point on the highway with sweeping alpine views
Drive-up stop with a classic summit sign photo-op

Cons

Small, rutted gravel spur and limited parking
Windy, fast-changing weather even in midsummer

Tips

Check road status the morning of your drive—early summer storms can close the pass.
For the best light, aim late morning to afternoon; for parking, go early or late.
Pack layers and a wind shell—10,947 feet feels wintery even in July.
Need facilities? Use Rock Creek Vista Point or Top of the World store.
Skip the spur in big RVs or bad weather; enjoy nearby pullouts instead.