State highway 12-winter driving

[pnwguy2]

I have seen mountain reports where US 12 is open while I 90 is closed. I think this has to do with much more traffic over 90, and more possibility of problems. I find that ironic, however, since I 90 (Snoqualmie Pass) is about 3,000 feet in elevation while US 12 (White Pass) is roughly 4,500 feet in elevation.

[happygrrrl]

Originally Posted by CrazyDonkey

You might be just as well with studless snow tires. Icy conditions in mountain passes can extend beyond November through March. Studless snow tires also won't damage dry streets, roads, and highways. If chains are required, you have to put them on, even if you have studded tires.

As I remember, studded snow tires are OK November 1st-April 1st. I’ve been told by state patrol that I do NOT need chains with studded tires. I’m female and I’m not going to roll around on the ground with tire chains, I did that when I was younger, no thanks. The roads in this state are already such crap that I’m not too concerned about my tires, I would rather be safe.

[ScottStielow]

Have chains and Survival gear/food in a back pack with you driving US 12. No speeding in the icy conditions.
I Agree with the others watching for the other driver while driving the pass.

[pnwguy2]

Originally Posted by happygrrrl

As I remember, studded snow tires are OK November 1st-April 1st. I’ve been told by state patrol that I do NOT need chains with studded tires. I’m female and I’m not going to roll around on the ground with tire chains, I did that when I was younger, no thanks. The roads in this state are already such crap that I’m not too concerned about my tires, I would rather be safe.

In the olden days, the I-90 road report usually went like this..."traction tires recommended", "traction tires required", or "chains required for those without traction tires. "Traction Tires" was always subject to definition, and that is why they don't use that term anymore. Today, it seems to be less vague. It is either no restrictions or chains required.

Back in the 70's and even the 80's, there really was little enforcement of the "chains required" rule. I remember driving through the pass a few times with no chains when required and had no problem. Today, I think the enforcement is more similar to California, where they mean it.