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pick up a little local artwork . Continue West , enjoying the views of Pilot Peak and Index Peak as you descend into Cooke City . You wouldn ’ t expect much out of a 100-person town but being the entrance to Yellowstone National Park and the jumping-off spot for snowmobiling , fishing , camping , and tourism keeps it hopping . If they aren ’ t too crowded , you can get a good meal at the historic Beartooth Cafe or Miners Saloon .
Backtrack nine miles East on US 212 to Wyoming Highway 296 to catch the 46-mile Chief Joseph Scenic Byway . Named after the famous Nez Perce Indian Chief , this area was also a favorite of Ernest Hemingway . Just after you cross the highest bridge in Wyoming , dual sport riders may want to cut out and ride County Road 101 up through Sunlight Basin . This area was and is a special place for Native Americans , geologists , miners , hunters , anglers , campers , and outdoorsmen
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of all types . It is a wild country and home to grizzly bears , elk , mule deer , moose , mountain goats , bighorn sheep , black bears , coyotes , mountain lions , wolves , and eagles . If you are a fisherman , try your skills on the Cutthroat and Brook trout .
Once back out to Highway 296 , continue East up a series of beautiful switchbacks . When you reach Highway 120 , it is decision time . Take a left , head back to Red Lodge , or a right , and run seventeen miles into Cody , Wyoming . This small western town was named after Buffalo Bill himself and brands itself as the ‘ Rodeo Capital of the World .’ Enjoy a meal at Buffalo Bill ’ s famous Irma Hotel or visit the very impressive Buffalo Bill Center of the West , which includes five world-class museums featuring Buffalo Bill , Native Americans , firearms , natural history , and Western art . There is a reason the entry ticket is good for two days .
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Complete the trip by heading back North on Highway 120 through Clark and Belfry to Red Lodge . The Beartooth Loop is just 152 miles and can be ridden in 3- 1 / 2 hours , but it would be a shame to miss Cooke City , Cody , and all the scenic overlooks . This truly is a bucket list ride , so take your time and make it an unforgettable day . CMA
Mark and Tammy Heid oversee the Rocky Mountain Region as
National Evangelist .
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www . cmausa . org
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