Colorado has its share of beautiful sunny days, but strong gusts, rain, and winter storms are always lurking around the corner — and the weather is getting increasingly worse. Whether you visit the mountains often or only go a few times a year, knowing how to handle rapidly changing weather can make a difference when you’re on the road. Buckle in as we cover everything from what to do when the weather turns bad to what equipment you should always carry in your car.
In this guide, we’ll discuss driving tips Colorado motorists can use daily. We’ll also explore the most deadly Colorado winter driving conditions and why professional driving lessons teach young drivers to drive safely in bad weather.
Tips for Navigating Mountain Roads
1. Check the Weather Before You Head Out
Before you set out on any mountain journey, take a moment to check the weather forecast. Colorado’s weather can change in an instant, especially at higher altitudes. What starts as a clear day in Denver might transform into a snowstorm at the Eisenhower Tunnel. Make it a habit to check multiple sources, such as weather apps or even the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) website, which has many safe driving tips and provides up-to-date road conditions and closures. When snow or ice is expected, plan extra travel time and consider adjusting your route if necessary.
2. Equip Your Vehicle for Winter Ice and Snowy Conditions
Being prepared with the right vehicle and equipment can make a bad situation more manageable. First, ensure your tires are up to the challenge. Winter or snow-rated tires are not just a recommendation — they’re necessary for safe travel on icy roads. In fact, Colorado’s Traction Law requires that vehicles have adequate tire tread (at least 3/16 inch), use tire chains, or be equipped with four-wheel or all-wheel drive during winter conditions. Make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition and top off your vehicle’s fluids, especially windshield washer fluid designed for cold temperatures.
Carrying an emergency kit in your vehicle is also a good idea. Here’s a basic list to keep in your car for winter travel:
- Blanket or sleeping bag
- Ice scraper and snow brush
- Jumper cables
- Shovel
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Water and non-perishable snacks
- Flares or reflective triangles
- First aid kit
- Extra layers of clothing and hand warmers
- An extra set of wiper blades
Being prepared can help you feel confident no matter what nature throws at you.
3. Drive Cautiously and Stay Alert
Mountain roads can be intimidating, especially when winter weather sets in. Drive slower than usual and avoid sudden acceleration or braking, which can cause your vehicle to lose traction. If you’re driving on a curvy mountain road, reduce your speed before entering the curve to maintain control. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles, especially snowplows, which need extra operating room. Never use cruise control in bad weather.
It’s also important to know how to handle skidding. If you start to skid, don’t panic. Steer in the direction you want the front of your vehicle to go, and try to avoid slamming on the brakes. If you have an anti-lock braking system (ABS), apply steady pressure to the brake pedal. With patience and practice, you can regain control.
4. Plan for Reduced Visibility
Mountain roads require your full attention, especially when visibility is low. Visibility can drop suddenly when driving through a snowstorm or thick fog. Use your vehicle’s low beams and fog lights to maximize your visibility. High beams make visibility worse in snow or fog because the light reflects off the moisture in the air, creating a glare.
Additionally, watch the road markers, guardrails, and other vehicles to help you maintain your bearings. If visibility becomes too poor, pull off the road to a safe spot and wait for conditions to improve. It’s better to wait out a storm than to risk an accident.
5. Watch for Wildlife
Mountain roads may be for vehicles, but wild animals use them too. Wildlife can frequently appear, particularly during winter, when animals may cross roads to forage for food. Deer, elk, and moose are common sightings, and hitting one can cause severe damage to your car and injury to the animal. Be extra cautious at dawn and dusk, peak times for wildlife activity. Keep your eyes peeled for animal crossing signs, and if you see one animal, slow down — others may be nearby.
6. Understand Colorado’s Chain Laws
Colorado has specific chain laws that go into effect when the weather gets severe, particularly on highways like I-70 that connect Denver to the mountains. When the traction law is active, all vehicles must have the proper equipment, which includes snow tires or chains for those without four-wheel or all-wheel drive. When Colorado’s chain law is in effect, commercial vehicles must use car chains, and passenger vehicles may also be required to use chains or snow socks. Failure to comply with these laws can result in a hefty fine, not to mention putting yourself and others at risk.
7. Use Engine Braking on Steep Descents
Driving down steep mountain roads can be tricky, especially if it’s icy or wet. Instead of relying solely on your brakes, use engine braking to maintain a safe speed. Engine braking involves shifting your vehicle into a lower gear so that the engine helps slow you down. This reduces the strain on your brakes, helping prevent them from overheating and losing their effectiveness. Keep in mind that engine braking works best for vehicles with manual transmissions, but many automatic cars also have a manual or low-gear option.
8. Know When to Stay Put
Sometimes the best choice is to avoid driving altogether. If there’s a severe winter storm warning or blizzard advisory, it might be safer to delay your trip. Colorado mountain weather can be unpredictable, and road closures are common during heavy snowfalls. If conditions are too dangerous, stay where you are until it’s safe to travel again. If you’re already on the road and conditions become too severe, look for a safe place to pull over and wait it out.
Stay Safe and Confident on Colorado’s Roads
Navigating mountain roads in Colorado’s winter weather can be challenging, but with the right preparation, caution, and knowledge, you can enjoy the journey safely. Being proactive can make all the difference, from checking the weather to equipping your car with the essentials and knowing how to handle icy conditions. Remember to adjust your driving habits for the conditions, watch for wildlife, and know when it’s safer to stay off the roads entirely.
While winter driving requires a different skill set, building confidence behind the wheel is important year-round. American Driving Academy specializes in helping drivers of all ages. Check out our driver’s ed programs today to learn more about defensive driving techniques or enhance your overall driving abilities.
American Driving Academy is Colorado's largest driving school, serving drivers across 15 Colorado locations since 1999, with more than 400,000 customers served through driver's ed, permit testing, drive testing, and behind-the-wheel lessons.