Also interested in mid Sept.. will be in the Red Lodge area and was wondering if we could do the pass or just plan to go straight to Cody. When do they normally close the pass for the winter?

 

When I rode it, it was the last week in august so the first week in September would probably be fine. But as others have posted the weather can change at any time. If you are going into Yellowstone then though watch out for the elk bulls they are getting ready to rut and are tempramental, I had one charge at me but a kind mannered ranger used a shovel to get him to turn back, pretty cool but scarey at the same time. they are a big animal up close and personal.

 

Thanks for the advice....I plan on coming into Yellowstone from Idaho(hwy.20) & spend a day or 2 there(camping).Being late August/early Sept. my thinking is that Yellowstone won't be that crowded(1st. time there).Beartooth pass would be a great ride on the way back home(Wisc.).

 

It can snow up there all 12 months of the year. I've driven it many times in the car, but I'm looking forward to riding it this year. As for animals, it is great to see them up close, but they are not tame and you definitely want to respect their space. You don't want to mess with bulls in rut (any species) or mamas with babies(any species). I have seen bears, both grizzlies and black bears, close to Cook City.

 

Here's the route I would recommend without Yellowstone NP.

 

2012 will be my 11th year riding the Beartooth Highway - it never gets old! We always go mid-July and, for the most part, have always had rideable weather. Chilly on top but by the time you get to the high desert - it can get pretty darn hot! Ride the Beartooth, then do Chief Joseph's Highway. Cooke City is a neat little tourist town but there's more to do in Cody. Enjoy the ride - it's one of the best anywhere.

 

Looks like it will have to be pushed back to a ride I want to do next summer. I blew out my achilles tendon on Monday and had surgery on Thursday. Apparently it will be 12 weeks before I can wear two shoes again....

 

Sorry to here of your misfortune......get well sone.

 

Road the Beartooth Highway from Red Lodge into Yellowstone National Park in 2010. Road it in August, and still quite cold at the higher elevations. The scenery is fantastic.