Industry News
The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is diligently preparing for the upcoming opening of Beartooth Highway on May 24. Positioned south of Red Lodge and often called the “Highway to the Sky,” it is considered one of America’s most stunning mountain routes.
Stretching between the Montana and Wyoming borders, the highway winds through a series of switchbacks and zigzags, culminating at Beartooth Pass in Wyoming, which has an elevation of 10,947 feet. The highway is an essential route that usually welcomes travelers on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend, contingent upon favorable weather conditions. This year, the MDT is optimistic about meeting this annual deadline due to lower snowfall depths than they typically see this time of year. Unfortunately, the lack of snowfall isn’t good news for everyone, as Beartooth Basin, Montana, a single-lift ski resort that opens for the summer on the pass, will not be opening this year due to the lack of snowfall.
Responsibility for maintaining the highway is divided between different agencies: MDT oversees the stretch up to the Montana and Wyoming border, after which the National Park Service covers the maintenance, continuing through Wyoming and back into Montana, extending into Yellowstone Park. As the anticipated opening day approaches, road crews have been actively clearing snow on the road. Their efforts ensure the highway is safe and accessible for the influx of visitors eager to explore the scenic route.
