beartooth pass

When we drove the Beartooth, there were throngs of mountain bikers (sometimes 8-10 abreast) which dictated how slowly (very very slowly) vehicular traffic was moving. There were limited opportunities to pass, and when we were able to pass one pack, we would quickly run into another. I don't know if there was some event happening that day, or if summertime mountain bikers are a regular feature. Not that this answers the OPs question, but the idea of hauling a 5er up and down, and having to cope with the bicyclists would give me pause.

trailertraveler wrote:
You may not have the time, but if you do, I think you would find it much more enjoyable to drive the Beartooth in your truck and loop back to Red Lodge on the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway. From Red Lodge it is an easy drive to Cody where the Buffalo Bill Historical Center is located. From Cody enter Yellowstone through the East entrance and on to West Yellowstone.

That is exactly what I did. Stayed in Cody and drove the loop of the Chief to Bear Tooth to Red Lodge. There is a reason it has been described as the most beautiful drive in America. I would re-emphasize the danger/concern listed by others regarding switchbacks and decents.
Have fun....it was a great trip for us.

I remember 16-17 yrs ago when I was about 10 my brother, father, and I took that way into Yellowstone. We had a conversion van at the time and I remember seeing many MH on that ride. We all were saying "they must be crazy!" Lol. I guess it's personal preference but I certainly wouldn't attempt it. It's a very nice ride and there were a couple pull offs. We were out there in July and there was plenty of snow up there. Some of it was even pink! I'd love to be able to take my kids out there someday! Good luck and enjoy!

It can be done but you should be very in tune with your rig and know what it can an can not do on this very beautiful but challenging climb. I have been over the Beartooth numerous times but have only crossed it ounce with an RV. Last year I drove from West Yellowstone to Red Lodge on my way back to MN in mr DP pulling a Jeep. I had no problem with the pass or traffic backing up behind me. I thought the road fro Tower to Silvergate was more of a challenge since there is not much of a shoulder on the East bound lane.

Most of the time that I take an RV into the park I will use the East entrance or take the Chief Joseph Hwy from just North of Cody to Cooke City.

Good luck on your trip.

trailertraveler wrote:
You may not have the time, but if you do, I think you would find it much more enjoyable to drive the Beartooth in your truck and loop back to Red Lodge on the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway. From Red Lodge it is an easy drive to Cody where the Buffalo Bill Historical Center is located. From Cody enter Yellowstone through the East entrance and on to West Yellowstone.

I agree see my photo of Beartooth

If you are committed to do it, take it very slow and keep heads up. I crossed through there in a truck camper, loaded and the family many years ago. Would NEVER do that again.

WOW! Nine "I wouldn't do it" and one "go for it". You finally got the answer you were looking for.

thanks newk, that's what I wanted to know.we'll be fine.

Lots of pull-offs to let others pass. It's been several years since I was over the Beartooth, but as I recall there were also several places to pull over and stretch your legs, take a pic or two, etc., but I couldn't say exactly where. I do remember we stopped at the top for awhile. We were driving an old motor home at the time.

Take your time and enjoy it. It's a beautiful drive. Just pull over and let others pass when you can. This isn't a superhighway. If somebody has to slow down and follow you for a short while, don't worry about it. Also, on the way down be sure not to ride your brakes and overheat them. Pull over and check the hubs for heat now and then. If they're getting hot, stay put for an hour.

coolmom42 wrote:
No way would I do that. It's a good way to kill your tranny and/or brakes. You will be both a hazard and annoyance to others. Not to mention it will be very unpleasant to you. You need to find another route to pull the RV, and drive the Beartooth in your truck, so you can enjoy it. It would be a shame to turn one of the most beautiful trips on earth into a white-knuckle experience.

X2! We drove Beartooth Pass last summer with just our truck and encountered two towed small fifth wheels and they were taking up the entire highway and were dangerous! We were amazed that they thought it was a good idea. Also, after you enter the NE entrance of Yellowstone, there are areas where the road is very narrow and next to high rock walls with very tight turns and it would be very difficult to tow a rig safely through there. We sure wouldn't try it!

Peg