Absaroka Range wilderness guide
Mountain Range · MT, WY

Absaroka Range

The Absaroka Range is a rugged and picturesque mountain range spanning Montana and Wyoming, known for its outdoor recreation opportunities and diverse ecosystems.

Mountain Range1,240,0004+ Trails

Designation

Mountain Range

Total Wilderness Area

1,240,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Absaroka Range

The Absaroka Range is a rugged and picturesque mountain range spanning Montana and Wyoming, known for its outdoor recreation opportunities and diverse ecosystems.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Absaroka Range extends from Montana into Wyoming, forming part of the Rocky Mountains. Known for its dramatic peaks, the range offers a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. The Absarokas are geologically young mountains characterized by sharp ridges, deep valleys, and prominent volcanic features. This area is home to diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, elk, and mountain goats, making it a prime location for wildlife viewing. Historically, the region was occupied by Native American tribes such as the Crow. Today, it includes parts of Yellowstone National Park and several National Forests, providing ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing. Notable landmarks include volcanic formations and high-altitude alpine lakes. The Absaroka Range appeals to visitors seeking adventure and solitude amidst spectacular natural beauty.

Field Guide · Mountain Range
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Absaroka Range

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Explore the rugged beauty of the Beartooth Plateau.✦ Visit the wild Lamar Valley for prime wildlife viewing.✦ Climb Avalanche Peak for breathtaking vistas.✦ Hike the Black Canyon of the Yellowstone for a remote experience.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Absaroka Range

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Absaroka Range.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Permit required for backcountry camping; fees apply in Yellowstone.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Absaroka Range

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Tower Fall Campground

Located near the northeast entrance of Yellowstone, offering easy access to Lamar Valley.

Colter Campground

Remote location providing a primitive camping experience with excellent star gazing.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Absaroka Range

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Silver Gate, Montana
⌖ 11.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Silver Gate, Montana

Silver Gate is a rustic, adventurous entryway to Yellowstone National Park. Savor outdoor tranquility with thrilling adventures like hiking, wildlife watching, and cross-country skiing amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
Red Lodge, Montana
⌖ 33.36 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Red Lodge, Montana

Red Lodge, Montana is a mountain town with endless outdoor adventures. Whether you’re hiking the Beartooth Mountains, skiing at Red Lodge Mountain, or fishing the nearby streams, it's a perfect base for exploring Montana’s rugged landscape.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Roscoe, Montana
⌖ 34.06 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Roscoe, Montana

Roscoe, MT offers adventurers the chance to hike, camp, and fish in the stunning Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. It's an escape into raw beauty, with breathtaking vistas and wildlife encounters.

Wapiti, Wyoming
⌖ 35.19 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wapiti, Wyoming

Wapiti, Wyoming offers outdoor lovers a quiet base near Yellowstone’s north entrance, with exceptional hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and winter skiing in pristine wilderness.

Late Spring through Early Fall for hiking and wildlife; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Canyon Village, Wyoming
⌖ 35.80 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Canyon Village, Wyoming

Canyon Village serves as an ideal hub for exploring the majesty of Yellowstone. From hiking trails with stunning canyon views to geothermal wonders, it’s perfect for adventurous souls.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Nye, Montana
⌖ 36.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Nye, Montana

Nye, Montana is a remote adventure haven. Explore pristine wilderness trails, enjoy the thrill of fly fishing, or simply camp under vast skies in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Absaroka Range

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Advanced/Expert Clinic
ADVEXPEDITION
Billings, Montana
HikingADV Bookable

Advanced/Expert Clinic

Join expert guides in Montana’s Beartooth Mountains for a technical mountaineering clinic designed for serious climbers. Push your limits and sharpen your skills amid stunning alpine terrain.

HikingAges 16+ • 9 Hours • Those who have spent a few winters in the backcountry riding technical terrain!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
High-Altitude Throttle: Summit X 850N Rentals from Cooke City
ADVEXPEDITION
Cooke City, Montana
SnowmobileADV Bookable

High-Altitude Throttle: Summit X 850N Rentals from Cooke City

An advanced snowmobile rental program in Cooke City offering 1–7 day Ski-Doo Summit X 850N experiences—this guide explains who it’s for, the hours and return rules, and what to expect.

SnowmobilePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Lamar Valley Winter Wolves & Wildlife
ADVEXPEDITION
Gardiner, Montana
Guided TourADV Bookable

Lamar Valley Winter Wolves & Wildlife

Step into Yellowstone’s winter wilderness with Yellowstone Wildlife Profiles on a private Lamar Valley wolf-watching adventure. Guided by expert naturalists, this full-day tour delivers up-close wildlife encounters framed by pristine snow and sweeping valley views.

Guided TourStarts at $825 | Full Day | Private Tour | November - MarchCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip