Colorado (CO)
Compare tire prices in Colorado
Colorado drivers need tires rated for cold and mountain driving, but the right answer depends on where you actually drive. Denver city driving gets moderate winter conditions where quality 3PMSF all-season tires are often sufficient. Mountain pass driving on I-70, US-285, and US-50 is a different situation — Colorado's Traction Law requires minimum traction standards on mountain corridors, and winter tires are strongly recommended for anyone who skis or commutes over passes regularly. Compare winter and all-season prices from national retailers; popular mountain-ready sizes (265/70R17, 245/65R17) are competitive from multiple online sources.
Colorado city hubs
Local installation tips and retailer coverage for major metros in Colorado.
Colorado tire FAQ
Do Colorado drivers need winter tires?
Denver city drivers can manage with quality 3PMSF-rated all-season tires for most winter conditions. Anyone who regularly drives I-70 to ski resorts, US-285 to Fairplay, or US-50 to Gunnison should have winter tires — ice on mountain passes is serious and all-season tires are genuinely insufficient in the worst conditions.
What is Colorado's Traction Law?
Colorado's Traction Law requires passenger vehicles on designated mountain roads to have tires with minimum traction capability — at minimum, tires with a UTQG traction grade of C, or the 3PMSF snowflake rating. During stricter chain law conditions, chains are required regardless of tire type. CDOT posts current road requirements on cotrip.org before and during storms.
What tire sizes are most common for Colorado mountain driving?
For crossovers and SUVs popular in the Colorado mountain market — Toyota 4Runner, Subaru Outback, Ford Expedition — common sizes include 265/70R17, 245/65R17, and 275/55R20. All-terrain tires in these sizes with 3PMSF rating (Falken Wildpeak AT3W, Toyo Open Country AT3) suit drivers who combine mountain access with daily Denver commuting.