This really is the most beautiful roadway in America

To get the best views of Billings, look no further than Rimrocks. The Rimrocks are actually large sandstone cliffs that were once the shores of the Western Interior Seaway, a large body of saltwater that went from the present-day Gulf of Mexico all the way up to the Arctic North. There are plenty of hikes and trails heading up to the top of the Rimrocks, with Zimmerman Trail being one of the easiest and flattest. In the spring and early summer, wildflowers cover the slopes. Both dogs and bikers are welcome, but anyone with a fear of heights should think twice, as many of the trails will take you to the very edge of the cliffs...

One of the few places you can still see skiers in July, Rock Creek Vista Point is an ideal place to stop and take-in the surrounding views. Right at the beginning of the Beartooth Highway, after a series of switchbacks, you'll see a nice, large turnoff with parking. From here, you'll find long stretches of cleared trails and stone railings, where you can see miles and miles of mountain ranges and maybe even a waterfall or two. Look across the valley to Beartooth Summer Ski Basin—one of the few summer ski areas in the U.S.—and you might even catch some skiers on the slopes. Vista Point is usually open from May to October (weather permitting), and has multiple restrooms on-site.

This wouldn't be the most beautiful roadway in America without a trip down Beartooth Scenic Highway. Starting in Red Lodge, this stunning highway runs along the Montana-Wyoming border and ultimately ends at the Northeast entrance of Yellowstone. Because of its high elevation (reaching close to 11,000 feet at some points), the road is usually only open from mid-May to mid-October. However, there are a few snowmobile paths to explore in the winter. Winding through three different national forests, drivers along Beartooth Highway will experience vast mountain ranges, meadows full of wildflowers, and massive glaciers. The whole highway measures 68 miles, and takes about three hours. Be sure to pack warm clothes, as it can get extra chilly towards the peak.

With an elevation of 10,947 feet, West Summit is the highest point along the Beartooth Highway. The landscape, as to be expected, is outstanding—with superb views of both the Beartooth Mountain Range and the valleys below. There are plenty of places to stop and take in the majestic sites. And, if you're lucky, you may be able to spot the actual "bear tooth" at the West Summit pull-out.

About halfway along Beartooth Highway, you'll hit the small mountain town of Cooke City. And it's here that you'll find Miners Saloon—an iconic eatery serving up delicious homemade pizzas and craft beers. It's not uncommon to find a group of locals sitting around, watching football, and enjoying a slice of Redneck pizza. With a cozy wood and stone interior, you'll feel like you walked into a friend's cabin. And if you're there on Sunday, treat yourself to the weekly Sunday BBQ, which typically includes ribs, some sort of fish, and a fully-loaded baked potato.

Congratulations! When you've hit Specimen Ridge, you've officially made it to Yellowstone National Park. This stunning ridge sits along the south rim of the Lamar Valley, and offers great day hikes for travelers entering or leaving Yellowstone. The Specimen Ridge Trail is one of the most popular hikes but also one of the most strenuous. If you take this trail, be prepared to climb some serious elevation over the course of the three miles. Keep an eye out for any fragments of amethyst and opal, as Specimen Ridge used to be a common place for miners to harvest such precious "specimens."