Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Beartooth Wilderness, spanning over 900,000 acres, is located primarily in south-central Montana with a smaller portion in northwest Wyoming. It forms part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and is renowned for its dramatic peaks, over 20 of which exceed 12,000 feet in elevation. The wilderness is home to the Beartooth Plateau, one of the largest contiguous areas of land above 10,000 feet in the U.S. Known for its ecological diversity, the area supports a range of wildlife, including grizzly bears, lynxes, and mountain goats. Beartooth Wilderness was officially designated as protected land in 1975, with human activity dating back to ancient indigenous cultures. It provides excellent opportunities for hiking, with over 300 miles of trails, each offering a unique glimpse into the area's unparalleled natural beauty. Fishing is another popular activity, thanks to the abundance of alpine lakes and streams teeming with trout. Visitors are drawn to its isolation, scenic vistas, and the challenge of its varied terrain.
