Red Lodge to Dubois: Ultimate Road Trip Guide

The route from Red Lodge, Montana to Dubois, Wyoming traverses the Beartooth Highway (US-212) and the scenic byways of northwestern Wyoming. This drive covers approximately 210 miles and typically takes 4.5 to 5.5 hours without significant stops. The road reaches an elevation of 10,947 feet at Beartooth Pass, making it one of the highest paved roads in the Rockies. Snow can close the pass from mid-October to late May, so check conditions before departure.

This region is also famous for its volcanic geology and early Native American trade routes. The Absaroka Range formed from ancient volcanic activity, leaving behind colorful cliffs and thermal features near Yellowstone. The town of Dubois sits at the foot of the Wind River Range, known for its massive, jagged peaks and deep glacial valleys. Understanding the terrain helps plan stops and prepare for changing weather.

Below is a summarized logistics table for quick reference:

The Beartooth Highway offers alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and sweeping vistas. Stop at Beartooth Lake for a short hike and wildflowers. Near the summit, the terrain becomes tundra-like, with hardy plants and marmots. Descending into Wyoming, you pass through the Absaroka Mountains, a volcanic range with colorful rocks and canyons. This area is prime habitat for elk and bighorn sheep. Near Cody, the Buffalo Bill State Park provides views of the Shoshone River and opportunities for fishing.

Local commerce includes rustic lodges and galleries. In Red Lodge, explore the historic downtown with its saloons and art galleries. Cooke City offers small diners and a general store. Cody, the largest town, features the Buffalo Bill Center of the West (five museums under one roof). In Dubois, visit the Headwaters Arts & Crafts Gallery for local artisans. For food, try the bison burgers at the Dubois Diner and the huckleberry pie at the Beartooth Café in Cooke City.

This route includes no UNESCO World Heritage Sites directly, but it passes near Yellowstone National Park (a UNESCO site). Many travelers combine this drive with a visit to Yellowstone. If time permits, enter Yellowstone through the East Entrance (from Cody) and explore the Lamar Valley for wildlife. However, this adds significant driving time.

For culinary variety, bring snacks from home or stop at grocery stores in Red Lodge or Cody. Many small restaurants have seasonal hours, so call ahead. Local specialties include Rocky Mountain oysters, elk tenderloin, and fresh trout. Vegetarian options are limited in remote areas.

Safety is paramount on this high-altitude route. Watch for wildlife at dawn and dusk; bison and deer frequently cross roads. The Beartooth Highway has many blind curves – use lower gears on descents to avoid brake fade. Carry a spare tire and basic tools, as services are far apart. Stay on paved roads; many turnoffs are gravel but accessible to vehicles with clearance. If you feel drowsy, pull over at designated scenic overlooks (every 5-10 miles along the Beartooth). The town of Cody offers a large rest area with picnic tables and restrooms.

For families, the drive is spectacular but long for young children. Plan stops at kid-friendly spots: the Beartooth Basin ski area (summer hiking), the Cooke City playground, and the Cody Firearms Experience (interactive shooting range). The Buffalo Bill Center has hands-on exhibits. Dubois has a small museum and the National Bighorn Sheep Interpretive Center, perfect for animal-loving kids. Bring entertainment for the car; audio books about local history can engage older children.

Pet-friendly framework: Most lodges and some restaurants allow dogs on outdoor patios. The Beartooth Highway has many short walks where leashed dogs are welcome. Carry plenty of water and a portable bowl. In summer, the pavement can get hot – check paw pads. Cody has a dog park near the Shoshone River. Dubois has a veterinary clinic (limited hours) for emergencies. Keep pets secure in the vehicle during wildlife sightings.

Hidden off-route spots: Just south of Red Lodge, the Silver Run Road (Forest Road 220) leads to a network of hiking trails and a historic ghost town (Luther, MT). Near Cody, the Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway (US-14/16/20) offers side trips to the Spirit Mountain Cave and the Horse Creek Pet Cemetery. Before Dubois, the Sleeping Giant Ski Area (summer hiking and mountain biking) is a quiet alternative. These detours require extra time but reward solitude and unique scenery.

Fatigue management and rest zones: The drive demands alertness due to high altitude and winding roads. The recommended rest zones are at Beartooth Lake (mile 29 from Red Lodge), the top of Beartooth Pass (mile 42), Cooke City (mile 64), Cody (mile 130), and Meeteetse (mile 170). Each location has parking, scenery, and some facilities. Plan for a 15-minute break every two hours. If you feel altitude sickness (headache, nausea), descend to lower elevation and rest.

For more guidance on discovering unique stops along the route, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The journey begins on US-212 (Beartooth Highway) from Red Lodge, climbing rapidly through switchbacks to the summit. After descending into Wyoming, the route joins US-14/US-16 near the east entrance of Yellowstone. From Cody, take WY-120 west through Meeteetse to Dubois. This final segment is remote, with few services. Gas up in Red Lodge, Cooke City, or Cody; the stretch from Cooke City to Cody is about 80 miles, and from Cody to Dubois is 95 miles. Fuel stations are scarce after Cody, so plan accordingly.

The road quality varies: Beartooth Highway is well-paved but narrow with steep drop-offs, while WY-120 is a wide two-lane road with occasional rough patches. Winter travelers may encounter ice or snow well into June. Always carry chains, extra food, and warm gear. Cell service is intermittent, especially in high elevations. Download offline maps before departing.

Key logistics items:

• Start: Red Lodge, MT (5,500 ft)
• Intermediate fuel stops: Cooke City, MT (limited); Cody, WY (full services)
• End: Dubois, WY (6,900 ft)
• Best time to drive: June to September for clear roads