Driving to Wolf Creek (purchase, law, shops)

[MikeThomas2]

Making drive to Wolf Creek next week with family… is a 4WD vehicle a necessity to make the drive?
Other option would be a full size SUV with brand new set of tires. Not winter/ snow tires because don’t need those in Tx but still new set.
Thanks in advance

[interloper1138]

4WD is definitely not necessary unless there's an incredibly severe winter storm in effect (which may cause them to close the pass anyway). As long as you have good tires and a set of snow chains, you'll be fine. But if it's nice and sunny like it has been, any car will be fine. I was there yesterday to do some nordic skiing and took a little 2WD hatchback. No problems and the road was bone dry aside from a little bit of melting snow near the ski area.

[mic111]

If they aren't all season that are well rated for mud and snow then you won't want to drive if there is snow on the roads or it is actively snowing. Whenever we have bought a new car we have to change the tires out right away come fall because the ones that come on the car are all season but perform poorly in wet or snowy conditions. An example of all season's that work well are Goodyear WeatherReady. Look for things like M+S (mud and snow rated) and the 3 Peak Mountain snow flake symbol.


If you have the flexibility to wait for dry roads or you are certain there is no precipitation forecast for your visit your tires will probably be OK but you won't be able to drive in a storm by law unless you have the appropriate tires.
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Traction Law

During winter storms, or when conditions require, CDOT will implement the Passenger Vehicle Traction Law. CDOT can implement the Passenger Vehicle Traction and Chain Laws on any state highway. During a Traction Law, all motorists are required to have EITHER:

1. 4WD or AWD vehicle and 3/16” tread depth
2. Tires with a mud and snow designation (M+S icon) and 3/16” tread depth
3. Winter tires (mountain-snowflake icon) and 3/16” tread depth
4. Tires with an all-weather rating by the manufacturer and 3/16” tread depth
5. Chains or an approved alternative traction device

https://www.codot.gov/travel/winter-driving/tractionlaw

[DAXhound]

I heard they got 908 inches in 1978..at the WC Pass.

[NW Crow]

Next week is currently forecast to be dry there. Of course could change. Check before leaving / deciding.

[StealthRabbit]

Just listen to CW McCall song 'Wolf Creek Pass' a few times, and bring your 1948 Peterbilt with triple sticks. That'll get you all tuned up for the trip.

I was driving a 1961 Kenworth around the MTN states at the time. (1975), so that song is a taste of terror. To prepare us for what's around the next curve.

I'd just bring the most comfortable and economical vehicle. (And be prepared for winter weather).

Many of us were driving Colorado passes long before radial tires, AWD, and passing lanes.
CSP closes the roads at the least suggestion of poor conditions. So be prepared for that! Food, water, blankets and candles

[MikeThomas2]

Looking at getting a pair of snow chains just to be prepared if I do need them.
Trying to find some for a 275 50 R22 but having trouble finding them those size?
Any suggestions - thanks in advance

[StealthRabbit]

Originally Posted by MikeThomas2

Looking at getting a pair of snow chains just to be prepared if I do need them.
Trying to find some for a 275 50 R22 but having trouble finding them those size?
Any suggestions - thanks in advance

https://tirechainsonline.com/truck-s...ims/275-50r22/
https://www.midwesttraction.com/stor...k-tire-chains/

I always use cable chains on car / road vehicles that run faster than 30 mph.

Remember that a 50 series tire has a wide stance, which results in a long run of cable which will GROW (diameter) with speed and can quickly cause a LOT of damage. Check all clearances, and drive slow if you must use chains / traction devices.

I would consider a snap-on spider if available

https://spikes-spider.com/collection...page/275-50-22

econo version, not sure it would comply as a traction device (no metal for ice traction)
https://www.amazon.com/Traction-Emer.../dp/B08M95LKYR

Our local tire shops allow you to purchase chains, and return if not used.