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Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, Shoshone National Forest adventures

Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, Shoshone National Forest Adventures

The Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness straddles the Montana-Wyoming border and offers a rugged backcountry experience with diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife.

944,000
Acres Protected
700
Miles of Trails
50,000
Annual Visitors
1975
Year Established

Popular Activities

Embrace the Wild: A Camping Adventure in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness

Welcome to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, a rugged expanse that stretches across the border of Montana and Wyoming, inviting campers and adventurers to explore its stunning landscapes. This vast, untouched refuge is home to shimmering alpine lakes, soaring granite peaks, and miles of winding trails that weave through dense forests, offering both serenity and exhilaration. For those seeking an adventure that melds the great outdoors with the thrill of exploration, this wilderness area is an unmissable destination.

As you approach the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, keep your senses tuned; the scent of pine mingles with the crisp mountain air, awakens your spirit of adventure. The landscape unfolds like a grand canvas painted with hues of green and blue, punctuated by the rocky silhouettes of the Beartooth Mountains rising dramatically against the sky.

Camping here is an experience steeped in nature's embrace. With an extensive network of campgrounds and primitive sites, you are free to choose between established sites that provide basic amenities and more remote locations that offer solitude under the vast Montana sky. Each campsite serves as a launchpad for your outdoor wanderings, whether you’re planning a day hike to one of the many breathtaking summits or embarking on an extended backcountry journey.

Consider packing your gear thoughtfully, as the wilderness demands respect and preparedness. Lightweight tents are ideal for the varied terrain, while durable footwear is essential for navigating both soft forest paths and rocky slopes. Store your food carefully—bears inhabit these woods, and secure storage is key to protecting both wildlife and your provisions.

Spend your days exploring the tapestry of trails that wind through thickets where wildflowers bloom in vibrant clusters. Whether you're trekking along the shores of crystal-clear lakes or ascending to a ridgeline for panoramic views, the experience is a feast for the eyes. The terrain varies from gentle rolling hills to steep, rugged climbs, ensuring that there’s a trail suited to every adventurer's appetite for challenge.

Be sure to carry plenty of water and stay hydrated. Many lakes and streams dot the landscape, but always purify your water before taking a sip. The sound of bubbling brooks is an invitation to pause and soak in the present moment, perhaps dipping your toes in the refreshing waters, as if nature itself dares you to immerse in its wonders.

As evening draws near, watch as the sky transforms into a canvas of fiery oranges and subtle purples. Setting up camp in the soft twilight allows you to enjoy the serene beauty of your surroundings, as the chatter of a nearby campfire harmonizes with the whispers of the woods. Wildlife, too, may join the symphony; expect to see deer grazing quietly in the distance or hear the rustle of birds settling for the night.

When planning your camping adventure, consider visiting during late spring through early fall. This window offers temperate weather that complements the vibrant ecosystems thriving in this wilderness. Aim to arrive early in the day to secure a prime camping spot, as popularity often draws fellow adventurers eager to experience this slice of paradise.

The Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness represents a magnificent union of unspoiled nature and adventurous spirit. Here, you can escape the clutches of the everyday and explore a land where mountains stand proud, lakes beckon, and forests whisper secrets only nature knows. Amidst the wild beauty, you might just discover the most profound adventure—one that stirs the soul and invigorates the spirit of exploration. Pack your bags, lace up your boots, and prepare to embark on a camping journey that will linger in your memory long after the last embers of your campfire have faded.

Plan Your Visit

Everything you need to know to prepare for an unforgettable trip to Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, Shoshone National Forest.

Entrance Requirements

No permits required, but follow Leave No Trace principles.

Best Time to Visit

Best visited between late June and September when trails are more accessible.

Visitor Information

Clark's Fork Ranger Station in Cody, WY is a nearby resource.

Getting There

Access via US Highway 212 with seasonal road closures in winter.

Weather & Climate

The Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness experiences severe weather changes. Summers are short with mild temperatures, while winters are long and harsh with heavy snowfall.

Conservation Efforts

The area is under threat from wildfire risk and the ongoing effects of climate change impacting native species. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation and minimizing human impact.

Camping in Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, Shoshone National Forest

Find the perfect spot to stay overnight and immerse yourself in the details.

Island Lake Campground

Primitive
No Reservations Needed

Situated near the Beartooth All-American Road, good for basecamping before exploring the Wilderness.

East Rosebud Campground

Primitive
No Reservations Needed

Located near the East Rosebud Trailhead, providing easy access to The Beaten Path.

Top Trails

The Beaten Path

Moderate
26 miles

A stunning traverse from Cooke City to East Rosebud, featuring lakes and panoramic views.

Granite Peak Trail

Hard
12 miles round trip

A challenging ascent requiring climbing skills to reach Montana's highest summit.

East Rosebud Trail to Elk Lake

Moderate
5 miles

A picturesque route with views of alpine lakes and mountain scenery.

Hellroaring Plateau Walk

Easy
4 miles

An easy hike offering expansive views of the Beartooth Plateau.

Trailblazer Tips

Prepare for sudden weather changes; carry layers and waterproof gear.

Best visited in late June through September when trails are generally snow-free.

Wilderness permits are not required, but Leave No Trace principles should be followed.

Bear canisters are strongly recommended due to active bears in the region.

Helpful Resources