A lot of people choose a “best of both worlds” setup: live in Livingston, work or shop in Bozeman.

And most days, it’s easy — the drive is about 25 miles on I-90. On a normal day, it’s often +-30 minutes door-to-door, but in winter you’ll want flexibility.

• Most days are fine with winter tires + awareness

• Wind is the wildcard near Livingston

• Check 511 before you commit

Winter is when you find out whether you like commuting… or you just like the idea of commuting.

Here’s the real-world version of what to expect and how locals plan for it.

1) The two big factors: Bozeman Pass and wind

Bozeman Pass isn’t scary, but it’s high enough that winter conditions can change quickly. Add Livingston’s famous crosswinds, and you get days where the drive is totally normal… and days where you slow way down.

MDT (Montana Department of Transportation), specifically notes that I-90 near Livingston is prone to strong crosswinds and that they may route traffic (or certain vehicles) onto a detour through town when conditions warrant.

MDT also posts active alerts like “strong crosswinds on I-90 through Livingston,” often calling out high-profile vehicles and towing units.

2) “Should I go today?” — use 511 like it’s part of your routine

Locals lean heavily on MDT’s tools:

• 511MT map for road conditions, incidents, closures, cameras, and alerts

• MDT’s road condition/alerts pages for quick text updates

• I also rely heavily on the Pass Warrior app.

If you’re commuting daily, setting up My511 alerts can save you a lot of guesswork.

And if you can, talk to your employer about occasional remote days during high-wind / heavy-snow events.

3) What “bad commute days” usually look like

Most winter days, the drive is fine with normal winter awareness. The rough days tend to come from:

• blowing snow/drifting

• slick spots on the pass or in the canyon about 5 miles before Bozeman

• high wind events

• crashes or jackknifed trucks that back up traffic

Those are the days where you’ll be glad you built in extra time and you’re not running on a tight deadline.

4) If you tow or drive a high-profile vehicle, be extra picky

If you’re in a van, pulling a trailer, driving a tall truck, or hauling toys, the wind becomes a bigger deal. MDT’s own alerts often call out high-profile vehicles specifically during crosswind events.

5) A simple “commuter kit” that actually helps

Nothing fancy — just what works:

• Good winter tires (not bald “all-seasons”)

• Ice scraper + small shovel

• Warm layers and gloves

• Phone charger

• A little patience on storm days

• Plenty of fuel in case you get stranded in your vehicle for a bit

6) When it’s really windy in Livingston, take it seriously

Even the National Weather Service will post Wind Advisories for the Livingston area when conditions ramp up.
That’s a good day to check 511 early, and don’t be shy about delaying a trip if you’re towing or driving something tall.