Beartooth Highway Winter Closure Date Announced by Montana Officials

If you're hoping to squeeze in one last scenic drive over the Beartooth Highway before winter sets in, now is the time to finalize your travel plans.

The Montana Department of Transportation says the winter closure for the Beartooth Highway, U.S. Highway 212, is scheduled for 8 a.m. on Tuesday, October 13.

That leaves drivers with a short window to experience one of Montana's most iconic scenic routes before high-elevation snow and ice close the pass for the season.

Beartooth Highway Could Close Before October 13

While October 13 is the planned closure date, travelers should be prepared for an earlier closure. MDT warns that weather or other unforeseen conditions could close the highway sooner.

At nearly 11,000 feet, Beartooth Pass is known for dramatic views, sharp switchbacks, and rapidly changing mountain weather. A sunny autumn morning can quickly turn into a winter storm, so anyone planning a final trip should avoid waiting until the last minute.

Once the pass closes, it typically remains closed until late spring.

Check Beartooth Highway Road Conditions Before You Go

Connecting Red Lodge to Cooke City, U.S. 212 is a popular route for people traveling near Yellowstone National Park's Northeast Entrance. Maintenance along the high-altitude corridor is shared by two agencies.

MDT manages the Montana section in Carbon County between mile markers 45 and 56. Once it closes for the winter, no snowplowing or maintenance is provided, and travel on that stretch is prohibited.

The National Park Service oversees the section that crosses into Wyoming and returns to Montana near Cooke City.

Before heading out, check live updates on Montana 511 for current highway conditions. If your route includes Cooke City or Yellowstone's Northeast Entrance, review the Yellowstone National Park road conditions page, too.

Autumn travel in the high Rockies requires preparation. Pack warm layers, extra food and water, a full tank of fuel, and a phone charger before starting your trip.