make us your destination
Visit Our Historic Garage and Vehicles Showcased Therein....Take a Bus Trip on the Beartooth Highway
The Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust is a small, all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Red Lodge, Montana. It was founded in 2008 with a mission of “preserving the past for sharing with others”, specifically original operating motorized vehicles used in Yellowstone Park prior to WWII and the historic AD Whitcomb Garage in which they reside. The Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust readily recognizes the importance and significance of their steadfast mission of preservation as so few of these vehicles and buildings remain. Their focus is one of saving the once-was for sharing with and educating others in the years to come.
The garage was built in 1936 by AD Whitcomb and as such is recognized as one of the oldest continuous operating service stations in Montana. It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places as it contributes to the Red Lodge Historic Commercial District.
The vehicles have a historic attachment to Red Lodge and the completion of the Beartooth Highway in 1936 with the Northern Pacific Railroad transporting tourists to Red Lodge for a trip to and from Yellowstone National Park in these vehicles. The vehicles are displayed in the garage where historical photographs and memorabilia of both tell their history and story.
The garage is open to the public late spring through early fall, for special events and by appointment. There is no charge for entry.
Bus trips in an all-original 1936/1937 Model 706 Yellowstone Park Bus on the scenic Beartooth Highway are provided by reservation only for families and groups. The reservation is for the “bus” that can accommodate up to 10 passengers; not for individual seats on the bus. If the group or family exceeds 10 passengers, a second bus can be reserved when needed and if available. The cost for each bus taken on the trip is $2,000. Those who take the trip can plan on traveling about 35 miles up the Beartooth Highway from Red Lodge at an elevation of 5,500 feet, to the West Summit of the Beartooth Pass at an elevation of 10,947 feet. The bus slowly travels along about 15-18 mph, to and from the Summit providing ample time to enjoy the breathtaking vistas. The canvas top of the bus is rolled back as weather permits, allowing riders to stand and take in the majestic views. Interested individuals are encouraged to round-up 10 of their friends or family and make a reservation by calling 406-860-5910 or emailing don.mueller@boypt.org.
Reviews from those who have visited
“Wonderful Experience and People - This was the highlight of our visit to Red Lodge. The people are passionate about the preservation of these buses and the history of the area. I learned so much and had a fantastic time.” (TripAdvisor)
“You are Here for a Unique Treat - We were visiting Red Lodge and were just walking by when some old cars caught our eyes, so we decided to stop in, we are so glad we did! This is an amazing place where you can learn lots about Yellowstone vehicles that were used in the park. Lots of history and amazing hospitality.” (TripAdvisor)
“Great Staff, Lots of Information - We stopped in the Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust while staying in Red Lodge. The folks in there are so very knowledgeable about the park history and the cool old vehicles that still carry visitors to Yellowstone.” (TripAdvisor)
“Blessed to Revisit the Past - I grew up in Yellowstone Park at Mammoth Hot Springs. When I spied the old park vehicles and buses, I was like a kid in a candy shop. I felt so blessed when they let my son and I hop in one for a photo opportunity. They were so kind and knowledgeable about the history. We were even provided with many resources to look up more information online if we wanted to learn more.” (TripAdvisor)
“Buses of Yellowstone - Such a Great Experience - We happened upon this organization a few weeks ago when we were passing through Red Lodge, housed in an old gas station…..such a cool location! Well, we didn’t know what we had in store when we went in…..an awesome couple greeted us and gave us a tour. It was the highlight of our visit! Such amazing history and turns out our tour guide’s family used to run the gas station where this museum is located. The couple were the nicest people with a wealth of very interesting information about the preservation of the Yellow Buses that used to transport people to/from/through Yellowstone Park.” (TripAdvisor)
“What an Unexpected Treasure - We stumbled into the showroom and came across the wonderful Buses of Yellowstone. What a treat! We were transported back in time as we saw pictures and articles about the history of the buses and the role they played in the history of the park and the Beartooth Highway. We highly recommend a visit.” (TripAdvisor)
“Yellowstone Historic Buses - We thoroughly enjoyed our unexpected visit yesterday to the Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust garage. It was the highlight of our visit to the charming town of Red Lodge! Our tour guide was wonderful and gave us some interesting information about the historic vehicles on display.” (TripAdvisor)
donate to Our Cause
Your donations help preserve our historic park vehicles and the garage in which they reside. Donations may be made by clicking on “Donate Now” or by mailing to Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust, PO Box 1522, Red Lodge, MT 59068.
Thank you for supporting us!
