Quote:
Originally Posted by venturaII
I think you're overlooking the fact that it's CalTrans that requires the chains. Not saying that a good set of studded winters wouldn't get you into or out of 95% of the places chains will..
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based on 15+ years of experience going up to the Sierras for snowboarding/hiking in the winter, I can tell you that chains are needed in the car if you are going to areas that have the R1 restriction in place (i.e. towns like Mammoth Lakes) due to existing snow on the ground and lack of plowing. But this is a loose requirement, because most places in the Sierras don't have strict enforcement in place unless it's a major holiday weekend.
R2 restrictions are put in place if there's a large storm or blizzard, but they usually close the roads before R2 restrictions are in place.
In practice, most people just carry chains and have winter tires, even if its not 4WD. It's not an issue but if you spin out or wreck (and require the authorities to help you get free), you'll be cited for not having chains if the restrictions are in place. Otherwise, drive slow and safe and no one will care.