Beartooth Butte Trail

Overview

This high-elevation hike delivers big alpine scenery fast. From the Clay Butte Lookout, the standard out-and-back route to Beartooth Butte’s summit is about 3.5 miles total with roughly 1,000 feet of gain—mostly easy Class 1–2 walking on tundra ridges, with one short rocky stretch that can be kept to a hike by skirting below the boulders. Expect sweeping views over lake-studded country and major Beartooth summits.

Route Options

• Summit from Clay Butte Lookout (primary): Short, straightforward, and scenic—follow a marked start up a moderately steep 200-foot pitch, then cruise a horseshoe ridge to the 10,514-foot top before returning the same way (3.5 miles total).
• Beartooth Lake approach (connector/loop): From the Beartooth Lake Trailhead, Trail #619 skirts marshy inlets and willows on the lake’s east side, then climbs the butte’s grassy flank to meet the High Lakes Trail. Many hikers fold this into the Beauty Lake/High Lakes loop (commonly ~7.6–9 miles depending on connections). The Butte-side segment itself is about 1.7 miles with a moderate climb.

What You’ll See

Beartooth Butte stands out: unlike the granite-and-gneiss peaks around it, the butte is mostly Paleozoic sedimentary rock—layered, ochre beds that reflect beautifully in Beartooth Lake’s inlets. The ridge is classic Beartooth tundra with summer wildflowers, and the summit panorama takes in big names on the Montana skyline. Linking into the High Lakes area reveals bouldery benches, clear tarns, and that “lakes everywhere” Beartooth vibe.

Best Time to Hike

Mid to late summer into early fall is prime. Snow lingers at these elevations, stream crossings are friendlier as runoff fades, and the Beartooth Highway typically opens around Memorial Day and closes near early October. Afternoon storms are common—start early for calmer winds, better light on the butte and lakes, and safer margins if clouds build.

Logistics and Tips

Park at Clay Butte Lookout (gravel access road) for the summit route, or at the Beartooth Lake Campground area for the lake-side connector and loops. The Beartooth Lake side can be boggy with shallow crossings; waterproof boots and poles help. Wind and weather change fast on the exposed ridges—carry layers and lightning awareness. Mosquitoes can be fierce, particularly near Beartooth Lake; bring repellent. This is bear country—carry spray and know how to use it. Pet policy for these specific segments isn’t clearly posted in the sources; check current forest regulations before bringing a dog.