Beartooth Loop National Recreation Trail

About the Beartooth Loop Trail

The Beartooth Loop National Recreation Trail offers one of the most spectacular alpine hiking experiences in the Beartooth Mountains. Located along the scenic Beartooth Highway (US 212) near the Montana-Wyoming border, this stunning loop traverses the high-altitude Beartooth Plateau, showcasing pristine alpine lakes, wildflower-filled meadows, glacier-carved valleys, and panoramic views of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness.

Beginning near the Gardner Headwall—a distinctive geologic feature visible from the highway—the trail descends steeply to Gardner Lake before winding through a varied alpine landscape. Hikers pass by three major lakes (Gardner, Losekamp, and Stockade), cross multiple creek drainages, and climb to Tibbs Butte Pass, all while enjoying views of towering granite peaks and the rugged Beartooth Mountains. The trail is managed by the Shoshone National Forest and serves as a complement to the world-famous Beartooth All-American Highway.

Difficulty Level

The Beartooth Loop Trail is rated moderate to strenuous. While the trail follows relatively gentle grades through most of the loop, the initial descent to Gardner Lake from the highway is steep (dropping approximately 600-700 feet in less than a mile), and hikers must climb this same section on the return—which becomes the hardest part of the hike at nearly 10,000 feet elevation.

The trail is well-marked with cairns and trail signs, making navigation straightforward. However, the high altitude (8,900-10,530 feet) affects most visitors, and the rocky, sometimes muddy terrain requires good footwear and physical conditioning. Multiple creek crossings can be challenging early in the season when snowmelt is high. The loop is suitable for experienced hikers in good physical condition; beginners should assess their altitude tolerance and fitness level carefully.

Elevation Profile

The Beartooth Loop features approximately 1,000-1,630 feet of cumulative elevation gain, depending on which trailhead you use and your exact route. The trail begins at roughly 10,400-10,530 feet at the Gardner Lake Trailhead on the Beartooth Highway, drops steeply to Gardner Lake at approximately 9,800 feet, then undulates through meadows and valleys, reaching a low point around 8,900 feet before climbing to Tibbs Butte Pass at approximately 10,300 feet and returning to the trailhead.

The entire trail system sits at high altitude—well above 8,500 feet for the duration of the hike. This elevation can cause altitude-related symptoms including shortness of breath, fatigue, headaches, and reduced physical capacity, especially for visitors coming from lower elevations. Proper acclimatization is important.

Weather Conditions

Weather in the Beartooth Mountains is highly variable and can change rapidly, even in summer.

Summer Season (Late June-August): This is the primary hiking window when the Beartooth Highway is open and most snow has melted. Daytime temperatures typically range from 50-70°F, with nights dropping to 30-45°F. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August—plan to complete high passes by early afternoon and be prepared to descend quickly if storms approach. Lightning is a serious hazard on exposed ridges.

Early Season (Late June-Early July): Snow may persist in shaded areas and on north-facing slopes. Creek crossings are highest and most challenging during peak snowmelt. Mosquitoes can be intense near water sources. Some marshy areas along the trail may be wet and muddy.

Late Season (September-October): Weather becomes more unpredictable. Early fall storms can bring snow to high elevations. Temperatures drop significantly, with freezing nights common. However, fall colors can be spectacular, mosquitoes are gone, and crowds thin out. The Beartooth Highway typically closes by mid-October due to snow.

Trail Season: The Beartooth Highway is generally open from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October, weather permitting. The trail itself is usually hikeable from late June through September, with July and August offering the most reliable conditions. Always check current highway status and weather forecasts before your trip.

Trail Route Guide

Multiple Trailhead Options

The Beartooth Loop can be accessed from three different trailheads along the Beartooth Highway, each offering a slightly different experience:

Classic Clockwise Loop from Gardner Lake Trailhead

This description covers the most popular routing, starting from the Gardner Lake Trailhead parking area:

Miles 0-0.7 (Gardner Lake Descent): From the parking area at approximately 10,400 feet, the trail immediately descends steeply through alpine tundra toward Gardner Lake below. The descent is rocky and can be challenging on the knees. Views of Gardner Lake expand as you drop, with the imposing Gardner Headwall—a popular summer backcountry ski zone—visible to the west. Reach Gardner Lake at approximately 0.7-0.8 miles. The lake sits at roughly 9,800 feet in a beautiful glacial cirque.

Miles 0.7-1.5 (Gardner Lake to Little Rock Creek): Cross Gardner Lake’s outlet stream and continue south along a relatively level plateau. The trail passes through meadows and scattered trees. At approximately 1.5 miles, reach a junction with the Little Rock Creek Trail. Turn right (south) to continue the loop.

Miles 1.5-4.0 (Little Rock Creek Valley): Descend through a scenic meadow into the Little Rock Creek Canyon. This section features multiple creek crossings (at approximately 2.5 and 2.75 miles)—early season crossings can require wading or careful rock-hopping. The valley floor is lush with wildflowers in July and August. Pass through pine and spruce forests, enjoying strong aromatic scents. Around mile 4, reach a trail junction after emerging into a broader valley. Stay right toward Camp Sawtooth.

Miles 4.0-6.0 (Lower Valley Section): Continue through the lower valley with another creek crossing at approximately 4.1 miles. The trail passes through swampy patches (marked by small rock cairns) and continues downstream through varied terrain—meadows, forests, and willow-lined streams. Watch for wildlife including marmots, mule deer, and fish in the creeks. At approximately 6.0 miles, reach the Stockade Lake Trail junction. Turn left (north) to continue the loop.

Miles 6.0-7.8 (Stockade Lake to Losekamp Lake): Begin climbing gradually toward Stockade Lake, reached at approximately 7.0 miles. The lake sits in a scenic basin surrounded by granite outcroppings. Continue past Stockade Lake, traversing the east shore, and cross the inlet stream. About a mile beyond Stockade Lake, reach Losekamp Lake at approximately 7.8 miles. Losekamp Lake is beautifully positioned with views of distant peaks including Sawtooth Mountain.

Miles 7.8-9.3 (Tibbs Butte Pass Climb): From Losekamp Lake, the trail junction directs you right (northeast) toward Tibbs Butte Pass. This section climbs steadily—gaining approximately 600 feet over 1.5 miles—through alpine meadows with spectacular wildflower displays in mid-summer. The climb can be challenging at altitude but offers increasingly expansive views. Reach Tibbs Butte Pass at approximately 9.3 miles (around 10,300 feet)—this is a scenic high saddle with panoramic vistas.

Miles 9.3-10.5 (Return to Gardner Lake): From Tibbs Butte Pass, descend gradually back toward Gardner Lake, completing the loop portion of the trail at approximately 9.7 miles. Turn left to retrace your steps past Gardner Lake.

Miles 10.5-11.5 (Final Ascent): The final challenge awaits: climbing steeply back up from Gardner Lake to the trailhead. This 600-700 foot climb at nearly 10,000 feet is the hardest section of the entire hike for most people. Pace yourself, take breaks, and save water and snacks for this section. Reach the trailhead parking at approximately 11-11.5 miles total.

Alternative Routes and Options

Out-and-Back to Gardner Lake: For a shorter, easier hike, simply descend to Gardner Lake and return the same way (1.4-1.6 miles round trip). This provides alpine lake scenery without the full loop commitment.

Counterclockwise Loop: Some hikers prefer hiking the loop counterclockwise, which reverses the climbing—you climb to Tibbs Butte Pass first, then finish with the steep descent from Gardner Lake. This saves the downhill for when legs are tired.

Hauser Lake to Dollar Lake Route: Starting from Hauser Lake Trailhead allows a true loop without retracing steps. This routing passes Hauser Lake, Solar Lake, Losekamp Lake, and Top Lake/Dollar Lake before emerging at the Dollar Lake Trailhead, then follows a dirt road back to Hauser Lake (approximately 10 miles total).

Extended Backpacking: The trail connects with other routes including the Lower Highline Trail and Beartooth High Lakes Trail, allowing multi-day backpacking trips deeper into the Beartooth Plateau. Dispersed camping is permitted following Leave No Trace principles and wilderness regulations.

Planning Your Hike

Best Time to Visit

The optimal hiking season for the Beartooth Loop Trail is late June through early September, with peak conditions typically occurring in July and August.

Permits and Fees

Getting to the Trailhead

From Cody, Wyoming (84 miles / ~2 hours):

• From Cody, take WY-120 north for 16.8 miles to the junction with Chief Joseph Scenic Byway (WY-296)
• Turn left onto WY-296 and travel 62.7 miles through spectacular scenery
• At the junction with US-212 (Beartooth Highway), turn right (east)
• Continue on US-212 for approximately 5 miles to reach the Gardner Lake Trailhead parking area on the right (south) side
• Hauser Lake Trailhead is located near Long Lake, a few miles farther east

From Red Lodge, Montana (38 miles / ~1.5 hours):

• From Red Lodge, take US-212 (Beartooth Highway) southwest
• Drive approximately 38 miles up and over Beartooth Pass (10,947 feet—highest highway pass in Wyoming)
• Look for Gardner Lake Trailhead parking area on the left (south) side of the highway
• Hauser Lake Trailhead is a few miles before Gardner Lake when approaching from Red Lodge

From Cooke City / Yellowstone Northeast Entrance (45 miles / ~1.5 hours):

• From Cooke City or Yellowstone’s northeast entrance, take US-212 east
• Drive 45 miles along the Beartooth Highway
• Pass numerous scenic pullouts, lakes, and viewpoints
• Hauser Lake Trailhead appears first, followed by Gardner Lake Trailhead

Important Notes: The Beartooth Highway (US-212) is a spectacular but winding mountain road reaching 10,947 feet at Beartooth Pass. It is typically open from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October, weather permitting. The road can close temporarily for storms even during summer. Check Montana DOT Beartooth Highway Status before your trip. No fuel services exist between Red Lodge and Cooke City (68 miles). The drive itself is stunning and worthy of extra time for scenic stops. GPS Coordinates for Gardner Lake Trailhead: approximately 45.03°N, 109.47°W.

Camping and Accommodations

Nearby Campgrounds:

• Beartooth Lake Campground: 21 sites on beautiful Beartooth Lake, first-come first-served, approximately 5 miles from trailhead
• Island Lake Campground: Along Beartooth Highway, scenic setting, first-come first-served
• Crazy Creek Campground: Small campground near Crazy Creek Falls
• Fox Creek Campground: Additional option along the highway corridor
• All campgrounds operate seasonally (typically July-September) and fill quickly on weekends

Nearby Towns:

• Red Lodge, Montana: Full services including hotels, restaurants, outdoor shops, gas stations, and groceries. Charming mountain town with excellent amenities. 38 miles from trailhead.
• Cooke City / Silver Gate, Montana: Small gateway communities near Yellowstone. Limited services including lodges, cafes, and small stores. 45 miles from trailhead.
• Cody, Wyoming: Larger town with extensive services, medical facilities, and shopping. 84 miles from trailhead but a scenic drive.

Backcountry Camping on Trail: Dispersed camping is allowed along the trail following Leave No Trace principles. Camp at least 200 feet from water sources and trails. Best camping areas exist near Losekamp Lake and in the lower valley sections. Be extremely bear-aware and use proper food storage (bear canisters recommended, bear hangs acceptable if done properly).

Conservation and Leave No Trace

The Beartooth Mountains are a pristine wilderness environment requiring careful stewardship.

Leave No Trace Principles:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know regulations, check weather, prepare for emergencies, and have proper maps
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stay on established trails, use existing campsites, camp 200+ feet from water
3. Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash including toilet paper. Catholes 6-8 inches deep, 200+ feet from water. Pack out all food waste.
4. Leave What You Find: Don’t disturb rocks, plants, or cultural/historic artifacts
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts: Use stoves for cooking. Fires not recommended in alpine areas—wood is scarce and ecosystems fragile. If you must have a fire, use established rings only.
6. Respect Wildlife: Observe from distance, never feed animals, properly store food, make noise in bear country
7. Be Considerate of Others: Yield trail appropriately, keep noise down, respect others’ wilderness experience

Trail-Specific Etiquette:

• Don’t shortcut switchbacks—causes erosion
• Stay on marked trail through meadows—alpine plants are fragile and recover slowly
• Cross streams at established crossing points
• If you pack it in, pack it out—including micro-trash like orange peels, nut shells, and cigarette butts
• Use restrooms at trailhead before starting; human waste in alpine environments takes years to decompose

Gear Recommendations

Essential Gear List

Footwear:

• Hiking Boots or Trail Shoes: Sturdy footwear with good ankle support and aggressive tread. The trail is rocky and uneven. Waterproof or water-resistant recommended for creek crossings.
• Extra Socks: Bring at least one extra pair; creek crossings may wet your feet
• Gaiters: Optional but helpful for keeping debris out of shoes and staying dry at creek crossings

Clothing Layers:

• Base Layer: Moisture-wicking synthetic or wool shirt and optional bottoms
• Insulating Layer: Fleece jacket or lightweight down/synthetic puffy for cool mornings, evenings, and potential weather changes
• Rain Jacket: Waterproof and breathable shell—essential for afternoon thunderstorms
• Hiking Pants/Shorts: Comfortable, quick-drying pants or shorts (convertible pants popular)
• Sun Hat: Wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap for sun protection
• Warm Hat: Beanie or fleece hat for cool weather or windy pass crossings
• Gloves: Lightweight gloves for cold mornings or weather changes
• Extra Underwear/Socks: Bring extras for creek crossings

Navigation and Safety:

• Map and Compass: Topographic map of the area and compass (know how to use them)
• GPS Device or Smartphone: With downloaded offline maps (cell service unreliable)
• Headlamp: With extra batteries in case you’re out longer than planned
• First Aid Kit: Personal kit including blister treatment, pain relievers, bandages, etc.
• Emergency Whistle: Three blasts is universal distress signal
• Emergency Shelter: Lightweight bivy or emergency blanket for day hikes
• Fire Starter: Waterproof matches or lighter
• Repair Kit: Duct tape, safety pins, basic repairs
• Sunglasses: Essential at high altitude—UV protection
• Sunscreen and Lip Balm: High SPF for intense alpine sun

Bear Safety (CRITICAL):

• Bear Spray: Non-negotiable. This is grizzly bear country. Carry EPA-approved bear spray (7.9-10 oz) in an accessible holster. Know how to use it before your hike.
• Bear Awareness: Make noise while hiking—talk, clap, use bear bells—especially near creeks, blind corners, and dense vegetation

Food and Water:

• Water: Carry 2-3 liters. Multiple lakes and creeks available for refilling, but treat all water.
• Water Treatment: Filter, purification tablets, or UV system
• Food: Bring more than you think you need—high-energy snacks, lunch, emergency food. 1,500-2,000+ calories recommended for a full day.
• Electrolytes: Sports drinks or electrolyte tablets to help with altitude adaptation

Pack and Accessories:

• Daypack: 20-30 liter capacity for day hiking
• Trekking Poles: Highly recommended for steep descent to Gardner Lake and final ascent—reduce knee stress and improve balance on rocky terrain
• Insect Repellent: Essential early season (late June-July) for mosquitoes near lakes
• Toilet Paper and Trowel: Pack out used TP in a zip-lock bag
• Camera: The scenery is spectacular—bring camera or smartphone for photos
• Trash Bags: Pack out all trash

Optional but Useful:

• Binoculars for wildlife viewing
• Lightweight rain pants
• Camp shoes or sandals (for creek crossings and camp comfort if backpacking)
• Field guide to wildflowers or birds

What NOT to Bring

• Heavy cotton clothing (dries slowly, dangerous when wet)
• Unnecessary electronics (save weight and battery life)
• Too much food or water (refilling options available, but balance with adequate supplies)
• Glass containers (dangerous if broken, heavy)

Physical Preparation

Safety & Hazards

Current Conditions

Primary Hazards and Risks

Emergency Procedures

In Case of Emergency:

• Assess situation—stay calm and evaluate injuries/hazards
• Provide first aid as needed
• If someone is injured and cannot continue: send strongest hiker(s) for help with exact location info. Mark location with bright clothing or reflective materials. Stay with injured person if possible.
• Nearest help: Flag down vehicles on Beartooth Highway or return to trailhead to seek assistance
• Emergency Contact: Park County Sheriff (Wyoming): 911 or (307) 754-8700
• Forest Service: Clarks Fork Ranger District: (307) 527-6921
• If you have satellite communicator, use emergency SOS function

Wildlife Safety Beyond Bears

• Wolves: Occasionally present but sightings rare. Do not approach; give wide berth
• Mountain Lions: Rare but present. If encountered: face animal, make yourself large, back away slowly, fight back if attacked
• Marmots: Common and not dangerous, but don’t feed or approach—they bite
• Elk and Mule Deer: Generally avoid humans but can be aggressive if surprised, especially females with young. Keep 25+ yards distance
• Raptors and Birds: Observe from distance; do not disturb nests
• Fish: Pike present in lakes; not a safety concern but interesting to observe

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Essential Resources & Information

Official Land Management

Trail Conditions and Weather

Planning Resources

Nearby Communities

Bear Safety Resources

Ready for Alpine Adventure?

The Beartooth Loop Trail delivers an unforgettable alpine experience—glacier-carved lakes, wildflower meadows, panoramic mountain vistas, and true wilderness solitude—all within a day hike from one of America’s most scenic highways.

For those who embrace the challenge, the Beartooth Loop provides rewards beyond measure: standing on Tibbs Butte Pass gazing across endless peaks, watching marmots sun themselves on granite boulders, discovering pristine alpine lakes reflecting snow-capped summits, hiking through carpets of wildflowers under impossibly blue skies, and experiencing the raw beauty of the Beartooth Wilderness. This is hiking at its finest.