Ultimate Road Trip Guide: Cody, WY to Missoula, MT

The drive from Cody, Wyoming to Missoula, Montana stretches approximately 340 miles (547 km) along US-212 and I-90, typically taking 5.5 to 6.5 hours without stops. This route traverses the stunning Beartooth Highway, a section of US-212 that climbs to 10,947 feet at Beartooth Pass, making it one of the highest paved roads in the Northern Rockies. Originally a Native American travel corridor, US-212 was constructed in the 1930s and offers unparalleled access to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. The journey transitions from arid high plains near Cody to lush pine forests around Missoula, crossing the Continental Divide at 8,090 feet near Cooke City. For tips on optimizing your stops, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Infrastructure Safety & Road Quality

Beartooth Highway is prone to rockslides; check warnings. Use low gears on descents to avoid brake failure. I-90 has rest areas every 30 miles. Carry a first-aid kit, extra water, and blankets. Winter travel requires chains and a shovel. The road is dark at night—avoid driving after sunset on Beartooth.

• Emergency services: dial 911, but limited cell coverage.
• Rest areas: Carbella Rest Area near Emigrant (I-90).
• Tow services: available in Red Lodge and Livingston.

Family and Child Suitability

Road trip suitable for children aged 6+. Beartooth Highway's switchbacks may cause car sickness. Breaks every 2 hours recommended. Kid-friendly stops: Cody's Dinosaur Museum, Red Lodge's Beartooth Nature Center, and Missoula's Caras Park. Pack entertainment for no-signal zones.

• Bear activity: teach kids about wildlife safety.
• Potty breaks: public restrooms at Red Lodge and Cooke City.
• Stroller-friendly: paved paths in Missoula.

Pet-Friendly Framework

Many national forest trails allow leashed dogs. In Yellowstone (near Cooke City), dogs restricted to developed areas. Pet-friendly lodging: Cody's Best Western, Red Lodge's Yodeler Motel, Missoula's La Quinta. Carry water and food for pets; few restaurants allow dogs on patios.

• Poop bags: required on trails.
• Pet stores: Red Lodge has a pet supply store.
• Vet clinics: Livingston Animal Clinic.

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones

Plan to stop every 2-3 hours. Designated rest areas on I-90: Emigrant, Livingston, and Garrison. On Beartooth, scenic pullouts serve as rest spots. Caffeine available in Red Lodge and Livingston. Consider an overnight in Red Lodge to break the drive.

• Nap spots: pullouts with scenic views.
• Stretching: stop at overlooks for short hikes.
• Driver swap: if traveling with another driver.

Hidden Off-Route Spots

East of Red Lodge, the Cooney Reservoir State Park offers swimming. Near Cooke City, the unmaintained trail to Goose Lake is a gem. Between Livingston and Missoula, detour to Norris Hot Springs for a soak. In Missoula, the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area holds quiet trails.

• Rock Creek: fishing spot off I-90.
• Phantom Creek: waterfall hike near Cooke City.
• Garnet Ghost Town: from I-90 exit 45.

Climatic Conditions & Route Aesthetics

Summer (June-September) is ideal: temps 60-80°F, clear skies. Beartooth Highway opens late May, snow may linger. Fall colors peak in late September. Winters are harsh; route closed. Spring can be muddy. The aesthetic varies from arid basins to alpine tundra.

• July: wildflowers in bloom.
• October: golden aspens near Livingston.
• Rain: afternoon thunderstorms possible.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Yellowstone National Park (near Cooke City) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While not directly on route, a short detour to the Lamar Valley offers wolf watching. The site encompasses geysers and wildlife.

• Entrance fee: $35/vehicle in summer.
• Bison jams: expect delays.

Natural Landscapes & Attractions

The Beartooth Highway offers views of glaciated peaks, alpine lakes, and wildflower meadows. Top stops include Beartooth Pass (10,947 ft), Island Lake Recreation Area, and the Clark's Fork Canyon. Further west, explore the Yellowstone River near Gardiner or hike in the Gallatin National Forest. Near Missoula, the Bitterroot Valley offers rafting on the Bitterroot River. The region is home to grizzly bears, wolves, and moose—bring binoculars.

• Beartooth Pass: iconic switchbacks and 360° views.
• Island Lake: picnic spots and short hikes.
• Pine Creek Lake trail: moderate 5-mile hike.
• Bitterroot River: tubing and fishing.

Culinary Infrastructure

In Cody, try Bubba's Bar-B-Que for smoked meats. Red Lodge boasts the Red Lodge Cafe for breakfast and the Carbon County Steakhouse. Cooke City has the Cooke City General Store for sandwiches. Livingston offers the Murray Bar for burgers and live music. Missoula's culinary scene includes the Pearl Cafe (contemporary American) and Market on Front (farm-to-table). Vegetarian options are available in larger towns.

• Cody: bison burgers and huckleberry pie.
• Red Lodge: craft beer at Red Lodge Brewing.
• Missoula: tamales at Taco del Sol.

Local Commerce & Culture

Cody's Buffalo Bill Center of the West is a must-see. Red Lodge's historic downtown has art galleries. Cooke City is a gateway to Yellowstone. Livingston is known for its fly-fishing heritage. Missoula's university vibe brings indie bookstores and music venues. Support local artisans: buy huckleberry jam or Western art.

• Cody: rodeo performances in summer.
• Livingston: Yellowstone Gateway Museum.
• Missoula: Saturday farmers market.

Fuel and Route Economics

Gas stations are sparse between Cody and Red Lodge, and then again along the Beartooth Highway until Cooke City. Fill up in Cody (average $3.50/gal) and again in Red Lodge. The stretch from Red Lodge to Cooke City has no services for 60 miles. After Cooke City, fuel is available in Silver Gate, Gardiner, and Livingston. Diesel is common at larger stations. Use GasBuddy to compare prices. The total fuel cost for a typical SUV (~20 mpg) is about $60-$80.

• Cody, WY: multiple stations, cheapest in region.
• Red Lodge, MT: stations near I-90.
• Cooke City: limited hours, premium prices.
• Livingston: full-service stations.

Road Quality and Safety

US-212 is well-maintained but narrow and winding from Red Lodge to Cooke City. The Beartooth Highway is closed from mid-October to late May due to snow. Check road conditions at 511mt.net. I-90 is a divided highway in good condition. Watch for wildlife, especially bison and elk, near Yellowstone. Speed limits: 70 mph on I-90, 55-65 mph on US-212. Cell service is unreliable between Red Lodge and Cooke City.

• Beartooth Highway: paved but steep grades up to 6%.
• I-90: smooth asphalt, wide shoulders.
• Winter travel: carry chains and winter tires.