The BEhive · House guide · Practical
Practical
Winter driving
The traction law, I-70 traffic, and when to leave.
- Colorado's traction law applies on I-70 in the mountains every year from September 1 to May 31, and since 2026 it covers two-wheel-drive cars too: you need mud-and-snow or all-weather tires with at least 3/16 inch of tread, or chains or approved traction devices in the car. Fines start at $100 and climb steeply if you block a lane. Rental-car drivers: ask for proper tires.
- Ski-weekend traffic can double the drive: westbound fills from about 6:30 to 10 on weekend mornings, eastbound from 2 to 7 on Sunday afternoon. Leave before 6:30 or after 10, and check cotrip.org.
- Loveland Pass can close in storms; check cotrip.org before heading over any pass.
- Residential streets in Wheat Ridge are plowed only after a foot of snow, so expect snow-packed side streets for a day or two after a storm.
https://the-behive.com/guide/winter-driving