If you're looking for a multi-day backcountry adventure that avoids the crowds of neighboring Yellowstone, The Beaten Path delivers. This 26-mile point-to-point traverse cuts through the heart of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, linking Cooke City to East Rosebud Lake through some of the most spectacular alpine terrain in Montana.
The route strings together a seemingly endless chain of clear alpine lakes. Russell, Fossil, Duggan, Rainbow, Elk. Each one better than the last. You'll cross high plateaus, navigate rocky passes, and drop into forested canyons with waterfalls cascading alongside the trail. Despite its name, The Beaten Path sees far fewer hikers than you'd expect for a route this beautiful.
This is a point-to-point hike, so you'll need to arrange a shuttle or car swap. From Bozeman, take I-90 east to exit 408 at Columbus. Turn right onto MT-78 S and follow it for about 27 miles through Absarokee. Turn right onto East Rosebud Road and follow it for about 14 miles until it dead-ends at the East Rosebud Trailhead.
You could also start from the Clarks Fork Trailhead near Cooke City and hike the opposite direction. That approach involves about 1,700 feet less elevation gain since you'd be starting higher and finishing lower. Either way works. Just make sure you've got a ride waiting at the other end.
The trail is well-maintained and the grade is reasonable for a wilderness route. No technical scrambling or route-finding required. That said, 26 miles with a full pack through high-altitude terrain is no casual stroll.
Starting from Cooke City makes the route more forgiving, as you'll gain less elevation overall. Expect some rocky sections, a few creek crossings, and exposed alpine terrain where weather can change quickly. Come prepared for variable conditions.
Most hikers complete The Beaten Path in 2-4 days, though ambitious trail runners have done it in a single push. A comfortable three-day itinerary gives you time to enjoy the lakes, fish, and soak in the scenery without rushing.
Plan your camps around the major lakes. Popular spots include Fossil Lake around mile 10 and Rainbow Lake around mile 18. Arrive early in the day during peak season if you want your pick of campsites.
Starting from East Rosebud at 6,280 feet, you'll climb steadily to nearly 10,000 feet near Fossil Lake before dropping down to the Clarks Fork Trailhead at 8,000 feet. It's a solid workout, but the grade is manageable and the views make every step worth it.
The Beaten Path doesn't have a single destination. The entire route through the Beartooth Plateau is the destination. The Beartooth Plateau offers dramatic granite peaks, alpine meadows carpeted with wildflowers, and lakes so clear you can count the fish.
This route consistently ranks among the best backpacking trips in Montana, and for good reason. Every mile brings something new. Don't miss it.
You will not run out of water on this trail. The route passes lake after lake (we lost count somewhere around a dozen) and follows running water for much of the distance. Bring a filter and refill often.
Pack enough food for your planned days plus one extra. Weather or fatigue could slow you down. This is grizzly country, so bring a bear canister or hang your food properly every night. No exceptions.
The trail is well-established and easy to follow. Expect some rocky sections at higher elevations and a few creek crossings that may require rock-hopping or getting your feet wet early in the season.
Snow can linger into mid-July at the higher passes. Late July through mid-September is the sweet spot for snow-free hiking and comfortable temperatures.
Dogs are allowed on the trail. Just make sure your pup is in good enough shape for the distance and elevation. This isn't a casual stroll.
Both trailheads are accessible by passenger vehicle. The East Rosebud Road is paved most of the way with some gravel near the end. The Clarks Fork Road near Cooke City is gravel but well-maintained.
Beartooth Publishing's Absaroka Beartooth Wilderness Map covers the entire route. It's waterproof and shows all the lakes and trail junctions clearly.
Both trailheads have parking areas. East Rosebud can fill up on summer weekends, so arrive early or camp nearby the night before. The Clarks Fork Trailhead near Cooke City sees less traffic.
East Rosebud Trailhead has a vault toilet. Facilities at the Clarks Fork end are more limited, so plan accordingly.
Despite being a well-known route, The Beaten Path sees surprisingly few hikers compared to trails closer to Bozeman or Yellowstone. You'll likely see other parties, especially at popular camping lakes, but solitude is easy to find.
Layers are essential. Temperatures at 10,000 feet can drop into the 30s at night even in summer. Pack rain gear—afternoon thunderstorms are common. A sun hat and sunscreen are must-haves for the exposed alpine sections.
Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
Mosquitoes can be fierce in the wooded sections and near lakes, especially in July. They thin out at higher elevations and as the summer progresses. Bring repellent and consider a head net if you're hiking early in the season.
The route alternates between forested canyons and open alpine terrain. Expect significant exposure at higher elevations. There's nowhere to hide when thunderstorms roll in. Plan your hiking days to be below treeline by early afternoon.
Don't expect any cell service on the trail. Let someone know your itinerary before you leave. A satellite communicator like a Garmin inReach is a smart investment for a remote trip like this.
This is a backpacking route through and through. Campsites are plentiful near the lakes. Just stay 200 feet from water and practice Leave No Trace. Popular spots include Fossil Lake, Duggan Lake, and Rainbow Lake. Fishing is excellent if you pack a lightweight rod.
No permits are required to hike or camp along The Beaten Path. That said, practice good wilderness ethics—pack out all trash, properly store food, and leave campsites cleaner than you found them.