Paradise Riders: Be Prepared!

I wonder how the Park feels about the AutoSock .  Not as durable as chains, but work quite well, are easy to install and don't create the clearance issues some cars have with chains, not to mention the warranty issue of some car makers.

@ JDS: Yes, there have been days when the Park has required putting chains on AWD/4WD with M+S (Mud and Snow) tires.

Frequently they will ask AWD/4WD if they have chains; they sometimes then ask to see the chains.

@DavidG: Yes, the Autosock is being recommended by the Park. IMHO because they have gotten so much blowback from smart AWD owners whose manual says do not use chains (like Subaru; and like many vehicles with 20 inch wheels).

IMHO, smart AWD with winter tires--temp sensitive rubber, snow clearance channels, hard knobs on edges, ceramic beads/walnut shells provide the best wet/icy/compact snow/snow covered pavement traction; Hakkepellita with studs are the best for ice and snow (not as good for wet); but I don't want studs..  To be better, chains have to be on all 4 wheels (can't do that on my Subaru according to manual or on my Jeep because the 20-inch wheels + tires are too close to the steering linkage in the front).  But the Park can mandate chains so I have chains that can be used on the rear in both vehicles but never had to use them (because of potential damage to the vehicle or its computer--but since I live so close I would turn around and go home anyway when conditions are that bad--like I did this morning.

the best alternative to chains I've seen pictures of are clamps that fit over the tires and that are tightened done by a ratchet at wheel center--even saw a car with them on in the park the other day.

autosock review

PUTlinkTEXThere

Thanks for the replies!

Andrew Carey, we just got the winter snow tires as a safer alternative to the M+S, and the suggestions for the autosock or chains for the rear wheels are appreciated.

(For our older FWD VW wagon we have always used true snow tires in the winter and they make a big difference. We also carry 'low profile' chains for emergency, but never want to be driving when they are needed!)

The chains topic comes up with some regularity. The requirement to C-A-R-R-Y chains in winter applies to A-L-L vehicles and not just on the road to Paradise. It also applies to mountain passes and where posted, such as between Greenwater and Crystal Mountain. The WSP is not moved by what your owner's manual says. On one particularly bad day, I saw AWD/4WDs without chains in their vehicles being turned around on Hwy 2.

..the best alternative to chains I've seen pictures of are clamps that fit over the tires and that are tightened done by a ratchet at wheel center--even saw a car with them on in the park the other day...

They are 'spike-spiders'. They are pricey and they work.