Hey all, Looking for some advice. Our family is thinking of driving up to the north shore of Lake Superior for Xmas time. What measures do we need to take to drive in the snow around that time of year? Will I need tyre chains or snow tyres? How can I find out about road closures etc?
Not sure about driving in the snow up there as far as snow tires or anything, but you can check road reports on the Federal Highway Administration website:http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/index.htm
No snow chains, just a quality set of snow tires (all season tires won't cut it). Make sure you have lots of no-freeze wiper fluid as we Canadians tend to go nuts with the road salt... which makes for some messy windshields (obviously make sure your wipers are in good working condition too). If you're coming north of the border I'm pretty sure Enviroment Canada's website will have relatively up to date road conditions. I know the Weather Network provides road conditions in the winter as well, but they're likely just supplied by Enviroment Canada.
a set of snow tires is a good idea, but I'd also pack some chains just in case. lock-thaw / De-Icer comes in handy too some people even carry ramp boards when all else fails (for getting out of self-induced ruts
Studies have been shown that there is absolutely no difference in all-season tires and snow tires. You can check it on the net.
I love Tennessee when the snow gets bad (once every 2 years it seems). I could set up a few lounge chairs and be entertained by the drivers. Especially the ones in the SUVs that try blowing by everyone else that has their feet on the brakes , only to see those SUVs a mile ahead off the road.
Thanks guys. We are looking at driving north on Interstate's and major state highways to get to where we are staying. Will I still need to get snow tires on these roads as well?