Beartooth Highway (Montana/Wyoming)

Charles Kuralt's praise as "the most beautiful drive in America" finds its evidence in 68 miles of switchbacks ascending to 10,947 feet at Beartooth Pass—the highest drivable point in Montana and a full 2,000 feet higher than #5's Overseas Highway. Summer snowfields persist into July, while alpine tundra ecosystems host wildflowers that bloom for only six weeks annually, with over 50 species recorded. At nearly 11,000 feet, temperatures average 15°F cooler than nearby valleys, so a jacket is essential. The route connects Red Lodge to Yellowstone's northeast entrance, offering 30% more elevation gain than the Million Dollar Highway's dramatic drops. Swiss Alps scenery for a fraction of the cost—the entire drive uses less than 15 gallons of gas.