Pros & cons
PROS
- Wide, photogenic views of sharp Pilot Peak and hulking Index Peak
- Spacious roadside turnout that’s easy to pull into and out of
CONS
- No restrooms, water, or trash service
- Windy and chilly at high elevation even in summer
The view
This Beartooth Highway overlook frames Pilot and Index Peaks across the Clarks Fork valley. The peaks lie many miles west of the turnout, so this is a roadside viewing stop rather than access to either summit.
Stopping here
The overlook, also known as Yellowstone Overlook, is reached from US 212 by Forest Road 139. Pause at the designated turnout for views over the forested valley and distant mountain skyline. Facilities are limited; bring what you need and use established stopping areas.
Along the drive
Combine the stop with Beartooth Lake, Beartooth Falls and the Clay Butte Lookout side road. The highway crosses high alpine terrain, and its availability depends on season and weather; check current road information before setting out.
Where it is
44.9331, -109.6391Pilot and Index Peaks Overlook
Tips for Pilot and Index Peaks Overlook
- 01Check road status the morning of your drive; closures happen fast.
- 02Bring a warm layer—wind at this high pass can bite even in July.
- 03Use the restrooms at nearby Clark’s Fork Overlook; there are none here.
- 04Sunset usually gives the peaks their best color; plan a short linger.
Amenities
Near Pilot and Index Peaks Overlook
All places →All trails →
0.9 mi awayClay Butte Lookout TrailWalk FSR 142 to a historic lookout with expansive Beartooth viewsModerate · 5.2 mi · 2.5 hr
1 mi awayClay Butte Fire LookoutHistoric fire lookout with giant views above the Beartooth PlateauParking · Scenic Viewpoint
1.7 mi awayBeartooth FallsShort roadside cascade with an easy walk to photogenic viewpointsPullout · Parking
2 mi awayBeartooth ButteRoadside view of fossil-rich red cliffs above Beartooth LakePullout · Parking
2.5 mi awayBeartooth LakeQuiet alpine lake with picnic spots, boat ramp, and paddlingPicnic Table · Restroom
2.8 mi awayBeartooth Lake Loop Trail7.8-mile alpine lake loop through Beartooth Creek and High Lakes trails.Moderate · 7.8 mi · 3.8 hr
2.8 mi awayBeauty Lake TrailHigh-country out-and-back to Beauty Lake from Beartooth Lake TrailheadModerate · 4.6 mi · 2.5 hr2.8 mi awayNative Lake TrailHigh-alpine ramble to a quiet lake with lively stream crossingsModerate · 7.9 mi · 4 hr
