Driving Lolo’s S-Turns? This New Camera Could Be a Game-Changer

If you’re one of the brave souls who commute daily between the Bitterroot Valley and Missoula, you’ve faced the beast: Highway 93’s dreaded S-turns near Lolo. They’re sharp, sneaky, and occasionally terrifying, especially when Mother Nature decides to sprinkle some snow, rain, or a nice glaze of black ice just for fun. Not to mention traffic backing up as far as the eye can see every time a vehicle gets in a fender bender.

But guess what? The Montana Department of Transportation has swooped in with a new weapon. Something that commuters have been needing for a long time. A shiny traffic camera aimed squarely at the S-turns. Think of it as your digital lookout, always ready to spill the tea on road conditions before you even leave the driveway.

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Coming from someone who commutes daily from the Bitterroot Valley, the S-turns have been a pain point for years. The tight curves, changing weather, and drivers who think they’re auditioning for a Fast & Furious sequel make for white-knuckle driving. If you’ve ever seen a truckload of bricks scattered across the road, a car upside down, or just a car in the ditch, you know exactly what I’m talking about.

This camera could be a game-changer. With real-time updates, you can decide whether to leave early, take it slower, or call in and work from home (because honestly, some days, your sanity is worth it). Plus, it might just encourage us to be a little more cautious when we see what’s going on out there.

WATCH! If you’re curious, you can check out the camera feed here. (Save it to your favorites for easy access on those snow-covered mornings.)

In the meantime, remember this: No amount of four-wheel drive or "I’ve lived in Montana my whole life" confidence can outsmart icy pavement. Let’s all slow down, drive smart, and maybe get through another winter without making the evening news.