I am taking a ski trip out to Breck December 9-14th and am considering driving my MINI (non-s). Since it looks like there is snow there frequently, I'm wondering what people's thoughts are for driving it up the mountain. Will it be impossible? I also have an Xterra w/4wd, but it gets less than half of the mpg than the MINI... Thanks!

 

You can do it in the MINI, all seasons are needed. Snows would be better.

Not sure where your driving from, but the Cooper does just fine in the mountains.

All bets are off if we have a major mountain snow fall in early December, be prepared to bring the Xterra.

 

I did order the car with all-seasons as I live in Wisconsin and intend to drive year round (unless we get 6+ inches). I figured I'd keep an eye on the weather to see if any major storms are rolling through when I'm supposed to be there. How long does it take the DOT to clear the roads, and what do you consider "major mountain snow?"

Thanks for the input!

 

Major 12 inches plus, DOT is normally on top of it. Usually the roads are clear within 12 hours, unless it is a 2 or 3 footer.

 

Oh. Mygod. 2-3 feet common? Last question... will they know a 2-3 footer is coming a few days in advance? I don't want to get out there and get whomped on with snow. Or do I...

 

You do and the weather folks know, but it's 50/50 with them.

Sometimes they call it right on, sometimes they miss and sometimes they miss big.

Come on out and enjoy, your skiing right? Three feet of fresh powder is good.

Take care, drive well and have fun.

 

And hope that some trucker without chains doesn't jackknife and close the interstate.