The Beaten Path
~3 days · 26.8 mi · moderate · Point-to-point
Quick facts
What the The Beaten Path is known for
A 27-mile (43 km) strenuous point-to-point traverse through the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness in Montana, linking Cooke City to the East Rosebud Trailhead via the Russel Creek Trail and East Rosebud Trail lake chain. The route ascends through a succession of glacier-carved basins and alpine lakes, crossing Sundance Pass before descending through the East Rosebud canyon past Rimrock, Elk, and Fossil lakes. The trail is typically done in 3–4 days and requires a high-clearance vehicle shuttle.
Elevation profile
Elevation ranges from 20,472 ft to 32,530 ft over 26.8 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).
- Uphill 10.3 mi · 39%
- Downhill 13.7 mi · 52%
- Flat 2.6 mi · 10%
Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.
Frequently asked questions
How many days does the The Beaten Path take?
Most backpackers hike the The Beaten Path in about 3 days (2 nights out) over its 26.8 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.
How much elevation gain is on the The Beaten Path?
The The Beaten Path climbs roughly 4,058 ft total — about 151 ft per mile, topping out near 9,970 ft.
Related trails
Sources & attribution
Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.