Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour on Beartooth Highway

Traveling Montana’s famous Beartooth Highway is an adventure in itself—stretching across one of the most scenic routes in the United States, climbing high into the mountains and offering spectacular views at every turn. For $16.99 per vehicle (up to 8 people), this self-guided audio driving tour provides a flexible, informative way to experience the route without the pressure of a traditional guided tour. It’s perfect if you prefer to set your own pace, explore off the beaten path, and listen to stories and tips that make each stop come alive.

What we love about this tour: First, the automatic GPS-triggered commentary means you don’t have to keep your eyes glued to a guidebook or worry about missing key spots. Second, the ability to customize your itinerary—whether you’re doing a quick half-day run or a full-day exploration—gives you the freedom to linger or skip.

The only consideration? This tour doesn’t include park entry fees or reservations, so plan your budget accordingly if you want to access certain areas or amenities.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic landscapes, enjoy learning stories about their surroundings, and value flexibility. Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or a first-time visitor to Montana, this tour can elevate your journey with local insights and stunning views.

Key Points

• Flexible, self-paced experience allows you to explore at your own rhythm.
• GPS-triggered narration means stories and tips play automatically as you drive.
• Affordable price of $16.99 for the whole vehicle offers great value.
• Includes access to major highlights and hidden gems along the route.
• Offline use ensures you won’t lose access due to poor cell service.
• Suitable for groups up to 8 with no additional charges per person.

Exploring Montana’s Beartooth Highway: A Practical Review

The Route and Its Highlights

Driving the Beartooth Highway is a bucket-list experience for many. Starting from Red Lodge, Montana, and winding toward Cooke City, this route climbs to nearly 11,000 feet, offering jaw-dropping panoramas of rugged peaks and alpine lakes. The self-guided tour is designed to make sure you don’t just drive through but also understand the landscape’s stories, history, and hidden spots along the way.

The cost is accessible—just $16.99 per vehicle—making it a smart choice for families, couples, or small groups. You get up to 8 people per booking, which helps keep the price per person quite reasonable. The tour is available year-round, with the flexibility to start whenever you like, thanks to the app’s auto-play feature based on your location.

Why We Like It

One clear advantage is the automatic storytelling. The app plays stories, tips, and directions when you reach specific points, so you stay engaged without needing to consult maps constantly. For example, as you approach the Bears Tooth, the app provides background on this jagged, tooth-like rock formation that gives the mountain range its name—an insight you might miss if you didn’t have some local knowledge.

Another aspect we appreciate is how the tour includes lesser-known spots alongside famous vistas. The Clay Butte Fire Lookout Tower offers a new perspective with some of the best sweeping views in the area—accessible by a short drive on a well-maintained unpaved road—while the Island Lake provides a pristine spot for a break, hike, or picnic.

Considerations

A potential challenge is that some scenic spots require a short drive on unpaved roads, like the Clay Butte Lookout. While suitable for most regular vehicles, travelers should be aware of rougher patches and pack accordingly. Also, since the tour is self-guided, it relies on your engagement; if you prefer a guided experience with a knowledgeable guide on-site, this may feel a bit more autonomous.

Who It’s Best For

This tour suits adventurous travelers who enjoy discovering landscapes at their own pace and value local stories over a scripted guide. It’s also ideal for those who want a cost-effective way to access major highlights—and especially for small groups looking to split the cost.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Start: Beartooth Highway

The journey begins along the Beartooth Highway, where the app’s stories will begin to unfold as you move along. The flexibility to start wherever and whenever you want means you can tailor your trip to your schedule, making it perfect for spontaneous adventures or carefully planned day trips.

Bears Tooth

The Bears Tooth is a must-see. Sitting at 11,915 feet, this jagged formation is the mountain’s namesake for a reason. The app guides you to the best viewing spots between the West Summit Overlook and the switchbacks, so you get the full impact of this striking feature. The lack of clear signage makes the app invaluable here—one reviewer noted, “We loved the way it pointed out the best places to see the Bears Tooth.”

Clay Butte Fire Lookout Tower

A short, 3-mile drive on a well-maintained unpaved road leads to the Clay Butte Lookout, which offers expansive views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The volunteer-run visitor center (during July and August) adds a friendly, local touch. The view from the fire tower is among the best in the area, providing a sense of how vast and wild Montana really is.

Island Lake

For outdoor lovers, Island Lake is the highlight. The most sought-after campground on the route is here, and it’s easy to see why. The hiking trails, such as the Beartooth High Lakes Trail, are perfect for a quick stroll or a longer trek by the water. Fishing and boating are available, with gear rentals at the resort nearby, making it a practical stop for an outdoor day.

Rock Creek Vista

A quick stop at Rock Creek Vista promises one of the best U-shaped canyon views carved by ice. The short trail leading to the platform gives you a chance to stretch your legs and snap some photos of the valley below, which is carved over millennia.

Beartooth Pass

The highest point on the route, Beartooth Pass at 10,947 feet, is what many travelers come for. The unpaved road to the West Summit Overlook offers panoramic views, and despite the sometimes fierce summer winds, the scenery is unforgettable. The app ensures you don’t miss the best vantage points.

The Experience of Using the Tour

The GuideAlong (GyPSy Guide) app is straightforward—download, sign in, and download the tour for offline use. The stories play automatically based on your GPS location, which means you can focus on driving and observing. One reviewer mentioned, “It’s like having a tour guide along for the drive,” which encapsulates the experience well.

The suggested itineraries include half, full, or multi-day options, giving you control over how much of the route you want to cover. Plus, the trip planner within the app allows you to customize stops, making each trip personal.

Price and Value

At just $16.99, this tour offers excellent value—especially considering it covers the entire vehicle and includes free updates. Compared to guided tours or hiring a local guide, this is an affordable way to access a wealth of knowledge and scenic spots. The fact that you can use it anytime, with no expiry, means you can repeat the experience or share it with friends and family for future trips.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who appreciates independent exploration combined with local storytelling, this self-guided audio tour could be just what you need. It’s perfect for travelers who want to avoid the rigid schedule of group tours but still crave insightful commentary and a curated route. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with a small group who can split the cost and enjoy the stories together.

For those who prefer hands-on guidance or detailed information about park entrances and fees, you might find this a little light, as those details aren’t included. But for most, the stunning views, flexible schedule, and educational stories will make this a memorable addition to any Montana road trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour require internet or cell service?
No, the tour is designed to work offline. You need to download the tour in the app beforehand, and then it uses GPS to trigger stories as you drive.

Can I start the tour anywhere along the route?
Yes, the commentary plays automatically based on your GPS location, so you can begin wherever you like along the highway.

How long does the tour take?
It’s estimated to take 8 to 12 hours, depending on how many stops you choose to make and how long you linger at each.

Is the tour suitable for families or groups?
Absolutely. One purchase covers up to 8 people in the vehicle, making it a good value for families or small groups.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
You should budget for national park passes and entrance fees if applicable, as they are not included. Also, some stops like the Clay Butte Lookout or Island Lake may have additional activity costs if you choose to do activities like fishing or rentals.

What should I bring on the trip?
A fully charged phone or device, a car charger or power bank, and comfortable walking shoes if you plan to hike or explore.

Can I use the tour more than once?
Yes. The tour has no expiry date, so you can revisit the app anytime for future trips.

What about weather considerations?
Be prepared for changing mountain weather—wind, rain, or cool temperatures are common, even in summer. Dress in layers and carry rain gear just in case.

Final Words

For travelers who want to experience Montana’s Beartooth Highway with rich stories, flexible timing, and stunning views, this self-guided audio tour offers a practical and engaging solution. It’s a fantastic way to add depth to your scenic drive without breaking the bank or being tied to a schedule. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Montana explorer, this tour enhances the journey with local insights and memorable vistas. And for just under $17, it’s hard to find a better value for a full day of mountain adventure.

If you love discovering hidden spots and hearing stories about the landscape that surrounds you, this experience is well worth considering. It’s perfect for groups who want to explore Montana’s rugged beauty at their own pace—making each trip unique, personal, and truly memorable.