Will the Beartooth Highway Open This Weekend?

The Montana Department of Transportation is hard at work on getting the road ready.

In a social media post on Thursday, May 21, 2026, the Beartooth Highway page announced: “We are officially ONE day away from the anticipated opening.”

But, the page added, “Mother Nature has decided to remind everyone who’s really in charge up there.” Snow is falling, so the page added a "conditions permitting” caveat. 

The MDT shared some more information.

“With more snow and mean winds expected today, [crews] plan to get up early to have the road open for you to Vista Point on the Montana side,” the agency wrote. “We can’t guarantee the gates will open at 8 a.m., but if conditions cooperate, we aim to have the road open by noon [on Friday].”

As for snow, Beartooth Basin already seems to have that base covered. The ski area has shared photos of its snow-covered slopes and, more recently, posted a video of some satisfying cornice-blasting. According to its website, the plan is to open May 25, give or take a few days.

For those unfamiliar, Beartooth Basin occupies a barebones—but charming—niche. There are only two Poma lifts to choose from, and no sprawling base lodge. The opportunity to ski under the summer sun is Beartooth’s biggest draw.

That’s not to say the skiing at Beartooth Basin is uninteresting, though. There’s a steep headwall and, if you’ve got the guts and don’t mind getting some airtime, looming cornices.

“Don’t forget your helmet!” Beartooth advises on its website. “Advanced intermediate/expert skills required.”

Tickets are on sale for $50. A season pass costs $395.