Beartooth Highway Motorcycle Crashes Hit Record High in 2026
The Wyoming Highway Patrol has responded to more motorcycle crashes on the Beartooth Highway in 2026 than the last four years combined. As riders head to the 86th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally (August 7-16), this is a safety alert that every rider planning to tackle this iconic route needs to read.
Table of Contents
The News
According to the Wyoming Highway Patrol, motorcycle crashes on the Beartooth Highway (US-212) have exceeded the combined total of the previous four years. The Beartooth Pass section, which reaches 3,437 m (10,947 ft), is one of the most scenic — and most dangerous — motorcycle roads in North America.
The announcement comes just days before the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, which typically sends thousands of additional riders through the Beartooth and Chief Joseph highways. Wyoming and Montana law enforcement are urging riders to exercise extra caution.
Why the Beartooth Is Dangerous
The Beartooth Highway isn't dangerous because it's technically difficult. It's dangerous because of what it rewards: speed, confidence, and the temptation to push harder on one of the most beautiful roads in the world. Here's what makes it risky:
- Elevation changes: The road climbs from 1,700 m (5,577 ft) to 3,437 m (10,947 ft) — a 1,737 m (5,699 ft) gain. Air thins, engines lose power, and riders can experience mild altitude effects.
- Switchbacks: Tight, decreasing-radius switchbacks with no runoff room. One misjudged corner and you're off the road with no guardrail.
- Weather: At 3,437 m (10,947 ft), it can snow in August. Temperatures can drop 15-20°C (27-36°F) from the base to the summit. Riders often start in t-shirt weather and hit freezing fog at the top.
- Wildlife: Bear, elk, and mountain sheep on the road, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Gravel: Sections of gravel on corners from road maintenance and rockfall. Invisible until you're on it.
- Traffic: During Sturgis week, the road fills with riders of varying skill levels — some on borrowed bikes, some on sport bikes running triple-digit speeds.
10 Safety Tips for the Beartooth
- Ride your own ride. Don't let a faster rider pressure you into corners you're not comfortable with. The Beartooth has no trophies.
- Check the weather at the summit. Conditions at the top can be radically different from the base. Pack a warm layer.
- Scan for gravel. Look for pale patches on corners — that's gravel. Slow down before you reach it.
- Brake before the corner, not in it. Trail braking is fine on a track. On the Beartooth, settle your speed early and let the corner come to you.
- Watch for wildlife at dawn and dusk. The road is most beautiful at golden hour, which is also when animals are most active.
- Stay in your lane. Crossing the centerline on a blind corner is how the worst accidents happen.
- Fuel up before the climb. There are no gas stations on the pass. Start with a full tank.
- Ride early or late. Midday traffic is worst. Early morning (6-8 AM) gives you the road to yourself.
- Wear full gear. Even if it's warm at the base, you'll want layers at the summit. Full protective gear — no exceptions on this road.
- Take breaks. The combination of altitude, concentration, and physical effort degrades your skills. Stop at the scenic overlooks.
Sturgis Traffic Warning
With the 86th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally running August 7-16, 2026, the Beartooth Highway will see peak motorcycle traffic. The Wyoming Highway Patrol and South Dakota agencies are urging all riders to check blind spots, maintain safe following distances, and be prepared for sudden traffic slowdowns.
For riders heading to Sturgis from the east or south, the Beartooth is a bucket-list detour. It's worth the ride — but it demands respect. Ride within your limits, and the Beartooth will give you one of the best days on a motorcycle you'll ever have.