It's the law.
Snowbird along with the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) and Unified Police have the utmost concern for the safety of visitors and guests coming up to the mountains. Making sure your vehicle is properly equipped for the conditions should be the first step in having a great day on the slopes.
The Traction Law
If it’s snowing on State Route 210—the road through Little Cottonwood Canyon to Snowbird—UDOT’s Traction Law will almost certainly be in effect. This law requires that all vehicles traveling S.R. 210 be equipped with traction devices. Drivers are notified when the Traction Law is in effect via UDOT road signs, message boards and social media feeds.
Enforcement
Police Officers at the entrance of Little Cottonwood Canyon will make the determination of a vehicle's safety based on known road condition information. 2-wheel drive vehicles with 4 mounted snow tires MAY be denied access to the canyon if law enforcement believes they present a hazard to other motorists. Locals can expedite Traction Law screening by participating in UDOT’s Cottonwood Canyons Sticker Program.
Rental Cars
Traction devices are not standard issue on cars rented within Utah. If you’re visiting Snowbird from out of state and renting a vehicle during your stay, verify with the rental company that your reserved vehicle is AWD or 4WD and has M+S or 3PMSF rated tires on all wheels.