From Denver International Airport (DEN) to Silverthorne, grades on I‑70 climb quickly and weather can flip from sun to whiteout in minutes. Before you head for the tunnels and passes, plan your car rental and vehicle choice around Colorado’s winter reality: traction controls can be activated without much notice, and delays are common after heavy snow.
Colorado’s traction and chain controls are sign‑posted on storm days along the I‑70 corridor. The simplest way to stay compliant is to choose a vehicle with all‑wheel drive or 4WD and proper winter‑capable tires. If a light SUV is plenty for dry days, a heavier AWD/4WD with good tread depth offers extra grip when conditions deteriorate.
When reserving, consider winter‑ready SUV options and ask at pick‑up about tire condition and drivetrain. Brands with larger fleets—such as Enterprise Denver fleet and Hertz at DEN—often stock AWD models across multiple categories, but availability changes by date and time.
If you’re visiting from abroad, you might search for car hire with winter in mind. Build a flexible plan: road crews work fast, yet temporary closures, traction checks, and metering near the Eisenhower/Johnson tunnels can extend a 90‑minute drive into several hours. Keep fuel topped up, carry water, and budget daylight for mountain passes.
Hola Car Rentals makes planning easier with benefits that matter in winter: All‑Inclusive+ Rate with maximum coverage, Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up, and on many routes, cashback on tolls—handy if you reroute via the beltways.
How to choose the right vehicle
AWD or 4WD improves start‑up traction and control on packed snow, but it’s not a cure‑all. Tires, ground clearance, and weight balance matter too. If a storm is forecast, aim for an AWD SUV with adequate clearance rather than a low‑slung sedan. Pack patience, accelerate gently, and use engine braking on long descents.
Tips for the I‑70 corridor
- Leave more distance than you think—it’s easy to misjudge stopping on packed snow.
- Use lower gears on long downgrades to reduce brake fade.
- Watch for chain/traction signage before Georgetown and near the tunnels.
- Build time buffers; a bluebird morning can turn to flurries by afternoon.
- Carry gloves, a scraper/brush, and a phone power bank.
FAQs
- Do I legally need chains? In severe conditions, authorities can require chains/approved traction devices for certain vehicles. Check signs and follow instructions.
- Can I install chains on a rental? Many companies prohibit chains and any damage they may cause. Always confirm your agreement at the counter and choose an AWD/4WD if you expect storms.
Ready for a safer mountain drive? Book confidently with Hola Car Rentals and pick a configuration that fits your route and season.
