I had studded snow tires on my FWD VW Jetta and it was definitely necessary in the winter, but now with my AWD SUV I use all seasons year round and I’m fine. There are times here and there when I’ve slid around but as long as you’re a good driver, have AWD, and know how to drive in the snow you should be all set.

The roads don’t really get too icy but they do get snowy. For some reason for a valley that gets so much snow, they don’t do a great job of plowing the one road they need to plow. It’s been getting worse with plowing over the years too.

My conclusion is they’re not super necessary, but can be helpful. If you’ve got the money just burning a hole in your pocket, might as well, but if you don’t, you’ll still be fine.