If I read it right May 27th 2016 the Beartooth will open.

http://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/parkroads.htm

 

Thanks for all the replies we'll just try not to plan to much and just ride!!

 

We went up to Cody for a long weekend mid - October last year and the pass was closed. So we went in Yellowstone's east entrance around the south end and up to Old Faithful. Then through the middle road to Canyon, took a left and headed over Dunraven Pass, at Tower Junction turn right to ride through Lamar Valley to Cooke City. From there keep heading east towards Beartooth and if it's not open take the Sunlight Basin RD. aka Chief Joseph Highway. Then Back to Cody.
Riding that country before or after tourist season is special.
Good Luck
Bill

 

Is there a preferred direction over Beartooth?

 

I did it both directions last year on the same trip and I think east to west was probably my preferred way then going down chief Joseph to Cody. To each their own tho. We left Cooke city and went to red lodge and then back thru bear tooth down chief Joseph to Cody.

 

Ditto: the above rode it both directions and enjoy east to west the best. Also an early morning start can be very helpful in avoiding some very strong winds upon top.

 

I believe the "official" opening of the road is Memorial Day weekend every year. That means that it's a guarantee it won't be open before then, but not a guarantee that it will be open after. Check the weather, cause up there, you never know...

 

Yes memorial Weekend is the date its supposed to open. Figure early June is likely. Love this road. I would prefer east to west also. I like to stop in Cooke City

 

Try this website for updates!


We were there July 3, 2011 and it was closed. Opened the next day I think.


http://beartoothhighway.com/

 

Never been there but my uncle lives in billings. He rides it couple 3 times a year, I'm going this year at least once, he said they strive to get it open at the latest memorial day weekend. Its usually open 2 to 3 weeks prior to, they do a good job of keeping it cleared after it stops snowing during those June and July snowstorms. If your gonna go early in the year it's best to go over it with the sun at your back otherwise the glare off the snow blurs out the views.