Winter along I‑70 can switch from sunny to slick in minutes. The climb from Denver to the Eisenhower–Johnson Tunnels, then over to Frisco and Breckenridge, often means packed snow, ice, and sudden whiteouts. If you’re planning your car rental in the city, it’s smart to choose traction that matches Colorado’s mountain rules.
Do you legally need 4WD or chains? When Colorado activates “Code 15/16” traction laws on I‑70, passenger vehicles must have adequate tires; and during severe events, 4WD/AWD or chains (or approved traction devices) can be mandatory. Many visitors find the simplest path is booking AWD so compliance is built in. If you prefer two‑wheel drive, carry approved cables and ensure your tires meet the snow‑tread requirement.
For winter capability without going oversized, consider an AWD crossover. Our Denver fleet includes options you’ll recognize, and you can focus on route timing—leaving Denver before sunrise to beat traffic can cut stress and save fuel. If you’re landing at DEN, you can collect the vehicle from the airport’s rental hub; just follow signs to the Denver Airport rental counters once you exit the train.
Not sure which segment of I‑70 gets the worst weather? The stretch around the Continental Divide is most exposed. When storms roll in, visibility plummets and speeds drop. Choosing an all‑wheel‑drive option from our SUV rental in Denver range gives you ground clearance and confident traction without going full truck. Families who need room for gear can also look at family‑size minivan choices, but prioritize models with modern stability control.
If you speak British English and prefer the term, you can also book your car hire with Hola Car Rentals—same inventory, same pricing clarity. Whichever you choose, our benefits are tailored for mountain travel: Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up, All‑Inclusive+ Rate with maximum coverage, and free travel insurance up to US$150,000 on selected itineraries.
Practical tips for the Denver–Breckenridge winter drive
- Check the weather and plan your departure around storm windows; earlier starts often mean drier pavement.
- Keep washer fluid topped and wipers fresh—slush spray can be constant in canyon sections.
- Use low, steady throttle on climbs; abrupt inputs can break traction even with AWD.
Ready to lock in the right setup? Explore traction‑ready choices and itinerary‑friendly pick‑up times across our Colorado network, including statewide SUV options. Book with Hola Car Rentals for transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and perks like cashback on tolls—so your first tracks in Breck start calm and covered.
Book today with Hola Car Rentals and enjoy a smooth, insured mountain drive from Downtown or DEN.
