Your journey to reach Skyline Guest Ranch is guaranteed to be a remarkable encounter with nature's finest. Travel the Northeast Entrance Road winding through Yellowstone National Park, where the awe-inspiring wonders of the Lamar Valley await. Embark on the legendary Beartooth Highway, a thrilling adventure with jaw-dropping panoramas at every turn. Or follow the captivating Chief Joseph Highway, tracing the historical path of the Nez Perce Indians through breathtaking natural landscapes. No matter the road you take, the beauty is boundless.
Join us as we delve into the distinctiveness of these three notable routes to our ranch, and discover the wonders that await you along the way!
BEARTOOTH SCENIC HIGHWAY (HWY 212) The Beartooth Highway, also known as U.S. Highway 212, cuts through a remarkably diverse range of ecosystems that are predominantly frozen for about nine months of the year. Some areas of this pristine wilderness have recorded snow drifts as high as 26 feet, and it can take several months to clear the snow from the road for the brief summer tourist season. With a considerable amount of skilled labor and a stroke of good fortune, the highway is typically open from Memorial Day through mid-October. Planning for this remarkable highway began in the early 1920s when local residents recognized the need for improved transportation and access through the Beartooth Mountains to communities and mining operations in the Cooke City area. Construction of the highway commenced in 1932 as a part of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) program, established under President Herbert Hoover's administration as a response to the Great Depression. The project employed thousands of workers from the CCC and other 'New Deal' organizations who overcame immense challenges in the rugged mountain terrain. Engineers faced steep grades, unpredictable weather conditions, and formidable rock formations. With their resilience and determination, they blasted through the mountains using dynamite, shaping a roadway that would become a marvel of engineering. After several years of construction, the Beartooth Highway was officially opened on June 14, 1936, connecting the towns of Red Lodge, Montana, and Cooke City, Montana. This scenic marvel served as a vital link for both transportation and tourism in the region, providing access to the northeastern entrance of Yellowstone National Park.
Over the years, the Beartooth Highway has earned a reputation as one of the most scenic drives in the United States. Its designation as an All-American Road in 2002 recognizes its exceptional beauty, historical significance, and recreational value. The highway stands as a testament to the perseverance, craftsmanship, and vision of those who turned a challenging mountain landscape into a captivating roadway.
CHIEF JOSEPH SCENIC BYWAY (HWY 296)
The Chief Joseph Byway carries with it a rich history that echoes the resilience and spirit of the Native American people and their legendary leader. This scenic byway in Wyoming follows the path of the Nez Perce people as they embarked on a remarkable journey of survival and resistance in the late 19th century. Named in honor of Chief Joseph, a revered Nez Perce leader, the highway retraces a portion of the tribe's historic route during the Nez Perce War of 1877. As tensions escalated between the Nez Perce and the U.S. government, Chief Joseph led his people on a grueling, 1,170-mile journey through the rugged landscapes of the Rocky Mountains. Seeking freedom and safety, the Nez Perce traveled through what is now known as the Chief Joseph Byway, navigating treacherous terrain and facing relentless pursuit by U.S. Army forces.
Completed in the early 1950s, the Chief Joseph Highway winds its way through a captivating landscape, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. The road stretches approximately 47 miles and reaches elevations over 8,000 feet, providing awe-inspiring vistas at every turn. This road, though it does not reach the same elevation as the Beartooth Highway, rivals it in beauty. The neverending landscapes are dotted with beautiful aspen groves and towering butte formations.
NORTHEAST ENTRANCE ROAD, YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK
Accessing Skyline from the west will bring you through the infamous Lamar Valley of Yellowstone National Park. Nestled within the vast expanse of the park lies the breathtaking Lamar Valley, a place where nature's majesty unfolds at every turn. Known as the "Serengeti of North America," this expansive valley enchants visitors with its untouched beauty and abundant wildlife. As you venture through the Lamar Valley, you'll be captivated by sweeping grasslands, meandering rivers, and the rugged silhouette of the surrounding mountains. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in the opportunity to spot bison herds roaming freely and graceful pronghorn antelopes darting across the plains. Keep your eyes peeled for elusive predators such as wolves and grizzly bears, as they silently navigate this untamed wilderness. With its untouched landscapes and thriving ecosystem, the Lamar Valley is a testament to the remarkable wonders of nature and a true gem along the route to Skyline Guest Ranch.
Over the years, the Northeast Entrance has witnessed the passage of wagons, stagecoaches, and later, automobiles, as the park grew in popularity. Though it is the smallest entrance community, the towns of Cooke City, Silver Gate, and Colter Pass are full of rich history and offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and commercialism of the other entrances.
From the captivating Lamar Valley along the Northeast Entrance Road to the exhilarating twists and turns of the Beartooth Highway, and the historic allure of the Chief Joseph Byway, all routes display the unique grandeur of nature. We hope that your journey to us is filled with wonders that unfolded before your eyes, panoramas that take your breath away, and a newfound love for the natural splendors of the Rocky Mountains. We can't wait to see you!