Bus trips in an original 1936/1937 Model 706 Yellowstone National 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 may be reserved if available.
The trips are primarily provided during the summer season when the Beartooth Highway is open for travel. The bus typically travels 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. Passengers should wear or bring along appropriate clothing for changes in air temperature and weather.
The bus stops at Vista Point for use of outdoor restroom facilities. Passengers may bring snacks, water and a lunch for a picnic along the highway.
Trips typically take 4-5 hours or longer dependent upon number of stops made. Recommended departure time is 10 am but may be adjusted as needed.
Pets are not allowed due to the all-original condition of the bus.
The cost for each bus taken on the trip is $2,000. Payment is required when the reservation is made, or shortly thereafter, to ensure the date and bus are reserved as requested.
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.
“Amazing experience. The only way to see the scenic Beartooth Highway. Classic Yellowstone Park Bus. Open air top. Lots of room for your friends. Great drivers that have amazing local knowledge and are so friendly. Ride in a piece of National Park history.”
"What a fun way to travel the Beartooth Highway and see the glorious countryside! Our driver was a great driver and guide. He told us so many interesting things about the area and the bus. I would recommend this to anyone coming to the area!”
“Our group had an amazing time! Our tour guides were great to work with while planning our trip and were able to accommodate the needs of our group. Our tour guides gave us the history of their buses and bus tours through Yellowstone. They were so much fun to travel with. We got a great tour through the mountains, stopping at points of interest. Having the open top in a historic vehicle was such a fun experience. We would definitely recommend this tour to anyone visiting the area. It was the best way to see Beartooth highway!”
“This is the best and only way to travel up the Beartooth Highway and to the Beartooth Pass. The buses are so cool to ride in and give you a whole different perspective on the highway. The staff is professional and friendly and full of knowledge. The next time you are in Red Lodge and looking for a great adventure, book a trip with these folks - you will not regret it.”
“We took a trip up the Beartooth Highway last summer to Long Lake on one of the historic Yellowstone buses operated and maintained by the Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust. We spent a great day viewing the incredible scenery, traveling up the Pass to 10,000 feet. The scenery was impressive, and so were the buses. Our driver made the trip fun and enjoyable for everyone in our group. It was the highlight of our time in Red Lodge. Save some time for looking through the bus garage at the displays on the history of the buses.”