Summer in Montana brings more than warmer weather and crowded trailheads. It also brings an increase in traffic as visitors travel to national parks, lakes, small towns, and scenic highways across the state. As tourism season ramps up, safety becomes even more critical as a shared responsibility for everyone on our roadways.
Many visitors are unfamiliar with Montana’s rural highways, changing weather, and long driving distances between communities and attractions. Scenic roads often encourage drivers to focus on mountain views, wildlife, or navigation apps instead of the traffic around them. At the same time, summer brings more bicyclists and pedestrians onto roads and sidewalks throughout Montana.
Bicyclists face unique challenges during peak tourism season, especially on narrow roadways and busy corridors. Drivers may not expect to encounter bicycles on rural roads. MDT encourages drivers to slow down, give bicyclists plenty of space when passing, and remain patient on crowded summer roads. Bicyclists are also reminded to ride predictably, use lights and reflective gear, and follow traffic laws just like any other vehicle.
Pedestrian safety becomes increasingly important in busy downtown areas and at popular tourist destinations during the summer months. It’s important that pedestrians stay alert, use marked crossings whenever possible, and make eye contact with drivers before crossing roadways. Drivers should slow down near crossings, downtown areas, and recreation areas where foot traffic is expected.
Montana’s summer season draws people from around the world to experience its landscapes and communities. With more people on the move, staying mindful on the road becomes especially important. Whether traveling by car, bike, or on foot, slowing down, staying alert, and respecting all road users can help keep Montana safe and welcoming during its busiest months. For more information on roadways visit our 2026 Bicycling the Bike Sky Map here: Bicycling the Big Sky