Beartooth Highway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

If you’re looking to explore one of America’s most breathtaking mountain routes without the hassle of a guided group, the Beartooth Highway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour might just be your new best friend. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the reviews and details paint a picture of a truly immersive and flexible experience that’s perfect for those who love scenic drives, storytelling, and doing things at their own pace.

What we love about this tour? First, the engaging narration makes the drive much more interesting, bringing the landscape to life with stories and facts you might miss on your own. Second, the value for money is hard to beat—just $14.99 for the whole car, and you can use the tour for an entire year. Third, the offline maps and hands-free audio make it accessible even in remote mountain passes with limited cell service.

However, a potential consideration is that you need to download the app and tour content beforehand, which requires a solid Wi-Fi connection. This might be a challenge if you’re already on the road and haven’t prepared in advance.

This experience suits adventurous travelers who want to explore the route independently but with the benefit of a guided narrative. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups who value flexibility, great scenery, and insightful commentary without the pressure of a scheduled tour.

Good To Know

• Affordable and flexible: One purchase lasts for a year, perfect for multiple trips.
• Rich storytelling: Engaging audio guides highlight hidden gems and local tales.
• Self-paced exploration: You control where and when to stop or listen.
• Impressive scenery: Views from nearly 11,000 feet, alpine lakes, and mountain passes.
• Offline usability: Maps and audio work without cell service.
• Ideal for small groups: One ticket per car, not per person.

The Scenic Marvel of Beartooth Highway

The Beartooth Highway, often dubbed one of America’s most scenic mountain roads, crosses some of the wildest landscapes in the country. Our understanding from reviews and tour details is that the route climbs up to nearly 11,000 feet, revealing panoramic views that are nothing short of spectacular. For those who love mountain passes and alpine scenery, this drive offers a front-row seat to snow-capped peaks, rugged formations, and expansive vistas that stretch across the horizon.

The tour’s route connects Red Lodge, Montana, and Cooke City, Montana, taking travelers through a landscape that shifts from lush forests to stark, rocky mountain terrain. One reviewer mentioned that the highway’s closure during winter makes it a seasonal wonder, typically open from late May to early October, with lingering snow in high elevations until mid-July.

What makes this drive special?

You’ll pass the Top of the World viewpoint, where the scenery is so breathtaking it’s easy to forget your car’s just a few feet from the edge of the world. From here, the views stretch across mountains and valleys, making it an ideal spot for photos and a moment of awe.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Clarks Fork Picnic Area
This is a great spot to start your adventure. The picnic area offers a close-up view of the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River. It’s a perfect place to stretch your legs and enjoy a snack before hitting the road. The calm river views paired with mountain backdrops set the tone for the scenic drive ahead.

Stop 2: Cooke City
The tour begins just outside the Yellowstone Trading Post, at 207 Main St. This small mountain town acts as a gateway, and the audio guide will set the scene with some local flavor, including the history of the area, which was originally built around mining.

Stop 3: The 45th Parallel
Coming up shortly after leaving Cooke City is the sign indicating the 45th Parallel, marking the halfway point between the Equator and the North Pole. This is a fun geographical fact that adds a unique touch to your road trip, and the pull-out provides a perfect photo opportunity.

Stop 4: Clarks Fork Trail
This stop offers insight into the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River, which parallels much of the highway. It’s a chance to learn about the river’s role in the area’s ecosystem, as well as its significance in the region’s history.

Stop 5: Crazy Creek Falls
A small parking area grants access to Crazy Creek Falls, a lovely cascade that can be enjoyed from the roadside. Reviewers have pointed out that this spot can be easy to miss, so paying attention to the notes will help you not to skip it.

Stop 6: Beartooth Highway
This is the highlight, where the road crosses some of the most dramatic landscapes. The highway is closed in winter but offers jaw-dropping views during the open months. Keep in mind that snow can linger into July at higher elevations, adding a glistening touch to the scenery.

Stop 7: Beartooth Basin Summer Ski Area
If visiting early in the summer, this area is a fun stop to see the ski slopes still in use. You might even see skiers dropping into the basin, a rare sight during summer months. The panoramic views of Twin Lakes from here are stunning.

Stop 8: Clay Butte Lookout
A quick, unpaved three-mile drive leads to an observation tower with sweeping vistas. The unpaved road means your car needs to be in good shape, but most passenger vehicles should navigate it easily.

Stop 9: Beartooth Lake
As the elevation climbs further, Beartooth Lake appears—a perfect spot for photos and maybe a quick walk along the water. Here, the landscape is dominated by mountain peaks reflected in the lake’s surface.

Stop 10: Red Lodge
The journey ends in this small mountain town, which was originally founded around coal mining. It’s a charming spot for a quick exploration, with some local history to enjoy before heading back or continuing your adventure.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At just $14.99 per car, the cost for this self-guided tour is a steal, especially considering you’ll be able to use it for a full year. This makes it an excellent choice for repeat visits or for travelers who want to take their time exploring without feeling rushed. The app’s offline feature means you won’t need to worry about spotty cell service in the mountains, and you can pause or restart the tour whenever you like.

The detailed narration promises to enhance your understanding of the landscape, offering stories and insights that turn a simple drive into an engaging experience. Based on reviews, many travelers appreciated the way the guide pointed out spots they might otherwise overlook—like the hidden waterfalls and scenic overlooks.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Download the app and tour content in advance when you have Wi-Fi, to avoid connectivity issues during your drive.
• Bring snacks, water, and layered clothing; high elevations can be cooler and windier than expected.
• Allocate about 2 to 3 hours for the drive itself, but plan more time if you want to stop, take photos, or explore side trails.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This self-guided audio tour is ideal for travelers who prefer the freedom to go at their own pace while still enjoying expert narration. Families, couples, or small groups who want to experience the stunning scenery without the hassle of guided tours or bus groups will find this offers fantastic flexibility.

It’s especially suited for those with a sense of adventure who appreciate storytelling, scenic beauty, and the convenience of offline maps. If you’re visiting Montana and want to make the most of your time on the Beartooth Highway without missing out on hidden gems, this tour provides excellent value and detailed guidance.

The Sum Up

The Beartooth Highway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour offers an engaging, flexible, and affordable way to experience one of America’s most iconic mountain routes. With its detailed narration, scenic stops, and the ability to go at your own pace, it stands out as a smart choice for independent travelers who want a richer understanding of their surroundings.

You’ll love the way this tour combines stunning scenery with insightful stories, turning a simple drive into an unforgettable adventure. The value for money is impressive, especially considering the tour can be reused over a year, making it perfect for multiple trips or longer visits.

While it does require some upfront downloading and preparation, the payoff is a seamless and enriching experience that complements the awe-inspiring landscapes along the way.

If you’re aiming for scenic beauty, local stories, and the convenience of a self-guided format, this tour is a top pick. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of adventure, education, and flexibility—without breaking the bank.

FAQ

Can I use this tour more than once?
Yes, after purchasing, you can use the tour for up to one year, making it ideal for multiple visits or repeat drives.

Does the tour include entry tickets or attraction passes?
No, the tour does not include entrance tickets or reservations. It’s a guided narration that complements your drive.

What do I need to do before starting the tour?
You should download the Action Tour Guide App and the tour content while connected to Wi-Fi, using the email and instructions provided after booking.

Is the tour suitable for all vehicle types?
Most passenger cars will be fine, but the unpaved Clay Butte Lookout road is not suitable for RVs or trailers.

How long does the drive typically take?
The full route covers about 63 miles and takes roughly 4-5 hours, but you can adjust your timing based on how much you want to stop and explore.

Are there any restrictions on group size?
Only one tour purchase is needed per car, regardless of group size, making it cost-effective for small groups or families traveling together.

This self-guided tour offers a blend of scenic beauty, storytelling, and flexible exploration that makes it a smart choice for anyone looking to enjoy the Beartooth Highway in a personal and meaningful way.