Beartooth Adventures: Cooke City Off-Roading & Snowmobiling - Billings

Beartooth Adventures: Cooke City Off-Roading & Snowmobiling

Billingsmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2–6 hours

Fitness Level

Basic fitness recommended; operators accommodate various skill levels from beginner to advanced riders.

Overview

Beartooth Adventures in Cooke City offers expertly maintained snowmobile and side-by-side rentals that let riders tap into Montana’s wildest terrain. From deep winter powder to summer ridges, their fleet and local know-how make every trip memorable.

Details

In the rugged high country of Cooke City, Montana, Beartooth Adventures delivers a raw and thrilling way to experience the Beartooth Mountains that tower nearby. This corner of Montana, just a stone’s throw from Yellowstone National Park’s northeast entrance, is a gateway to vast wildlands sculpted by ancient glaciers and volcanic activity. The landscape shifts dramatically with the seasons—from crisp, open trails lined with lodgepole pine to deep, powder-filled backcountry corridors perfect for snowmobiling.

Beartooth Adventures specializes in top-tier snowmobile and side-by-side rentals that cater to riders of all levels. Their fleet is impressively versatile, featuring machines like the 2023 Can-Am Maverick Sport 4 seater and the 2024 Ski Doo Summit X 850T 154 3”, ideal for carving powder or blasting rugged trails. Whether you’re new to snowmobiling or a seasoned veteran, the knowledgeable staff ensure you’re geared up with precisely the right rig and safety advice to match your skill level and adventure goals.

The region’s mix of alpine meadows, sharp granite outcrops, and dense forest cover makes each outing distinctive. In winter, rides wind through some of the deepest snowpacks in the Northern Rockies, offering access to isolated peaks and frozen alpine lakes. Warmer months transform the area into a playground for side-by-side vehicles, where the broad Maverick Trail 2 Seater navigates rocky ridges and streams with balance and power.

Guests consistently praise the hands-on service and local expertise here. Owner-operators Shannon and Cole provide a welcoming, no-nonsense vibe with equipment maintained to exacting standards. They’ve built lasting relationships with riders across years and trips, fostering a dependable base camp for adventures off the beaten path. For anyone drawn to Cooke City, Beartooth Adventures unlocks access to Montana’s raw backcountry with authenticity and precision.

Adventure Tips

Know Your Machine

Familiarize yourself with the controls on your rental, especially different models like Ski Doo and Arctic Cat, for safer and more enjoyable rides.

Pack Layers for Sudden Weather

Mountain weather can turn chilly fast; bring moisture-wicking base layers and a waterproof outer shell.

Respect Local Trail Etiquette

Stick to designated trails and follow signage to preserve terrain and ensure everyone's safety.

Ride With a Buddy

Especially in winter, riding in pairs or small groups improves safety in this remote mountainous terrain.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Eagle Creek Trail for secluded forest rides
  • Johnson Lake—a quiet alpine spot accessible by side-by-side

Wildlife

  • Elk herds grazing near trails
  • Occasional sightings of bald eagles and mountain goats

History

Cooke City has been a gateway for miners and outdoor enthusiasts since the late 1800s, with snowmobiling becoming popular here over the last 50 years.

Conservation

Beartooth Adventures emphasizes responsible riding by adhering to trail regulations that protect fragile alpine ecosystems and minimize erosion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
mid-morning
sunset

Best Viewpoints

  • Beartooth Pass overlook
  • Gardiner River bridge
  • Summit Edge ridges

What to Photograph

Snow-covered peaks
Riders in action
Wildlife along trails

Recommended Gear

Helmet

Essential

Protects your head and helps insulate against cold winds during snowmobiling.

winter specific

Insulated Riding Gloves

Essential

Keep hands warm and maintain grip on controls in subfreezing temperatures.

winter specific

Protective Goggles

Essential

Shields eyes from snow glare, wind, and debris on trails.

all specific

All-Weather Outerwear

Essential

Waterproof and insulated jackets and pants guard you from snow, wind, and moisture.

winter specific

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