Beartooth Ranger District Office

Overview

This is the US Forest Service front desk for the Beartooth and Pryor Mountain ranges, right on US‑212 in Red Lodge. It’s the smart first stop before driving the Beartooth Highway: pick up permits, grab maps, and get real‑time guidance from rangers who know the road and current conditions.

What You’ll Find

• Knowledgeable staff who can steer you to trailheads, lakes, and pullouts along the highway and nearby forests.
• Permits for camping and hiking, plus detailed maps for sale and free hiking trail maps.
• Restrooms and brochures—think efficient ranger office, not a museum.

Why Stop Here Before the Drive

Services on the highway are sparse, and weather can flip fast at 10,000+ feet. Rangers can flag construction, temporary closures, and the best stops for your day so you don’t waste miles or miss highlights.

Season & Operations

The Beartooth Highway generally runs Memorial Day to mid‑October, weather permitting; early storms can close sections without much notice. The office keeps weekday hours (typically Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.) and is closed on federal holidays.

Safety & Etiquette

You’re in bear country. Rangers can brief you on food storage, bear spray, and wilderness regulations if you’re heading into the Absaroka‑Beartooth Wilderness. High‑country weather means strong sun, wind, and sudden cold—layer up and plan accordingly.

Best Time to Visit

Drop in on weekday mornings when the doors open to get the clearest picture of the day’s conditions before you commit to the pass. Peak summer weekends see heavier traffic on the highway, so planning early pays off.