Your Cherokee Trailhawk’s all-terrain tires must handle rocky trails and highway rain equally well. Finding the Best All Terrain Tires For Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market. This guide breaks down the top picks based on real-world testing, tread life, and off-road grip.
Your Trailhawk is already a capable off-roader from the factory. But the tires it came with might not cut it for serious mud or snow. Upgrading to proper all-terrains transforms how your Jeep performs both on and off the pavement.
Best All Terrain Tires For Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk
Before we dive into the list, let’s talk about what makes a tire great for the Cherokee Trailhawk. You need something that fits the stock 17-inch wheels without rubbing. You also want a tire that balances aggressive tread with daily driving comfort.
The following tires are tested on the Trailhawk’s unique suspension and weight. Each one offers a different mix of durability, noise, and traction.
Top 5 Tires Ranked For Your Trailhawk
These are the best options currently available. They are listed in order of overall performance for mixed driving.
- BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 – The gold standard for durability and off-road grip.
- Falken Wildpeak A/T3W – Excellent wet weather performance and long tread life.
- Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac – Aggressive look with great snow traction.
- Toyo Open Country A/T III – Quiet on the highway with strong sidewalls.
- Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S – Budget-friendly without sacrificing capability.
1. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2
The KO2 is the tire most off-roaders trust. It has a tough sidewall that resists cuts from rocks. On the Trailhawk, this tire feels planted on loose gravel and dirt.
On the highway, it is slightly louder than some competitors. But the trade-off is incredible traction in mud and snow. You can air down these tires for better grip on rocky trails without worrying about punctures.
One downside is the weight. The KO2 is heavier than other all-terrains, which can slightly reduce fuel economy. However, for serious off-road use, this is the best choice.
Key Specs For Trailhawk
- Available in 245/65R17 (stock size)
- Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake rated
- 50,000-mile treadwear warranty
- Excellent sidewall protection
2. Falken Wildpeak A/T3W
The Falken Wildpeak A/T3W is a favorite for daily drivers who still hit trails. It offers a smooth, quiet ride on pavement. The tread pattern is designed to channel water away, reducing hydroplaning risk.
In light mud and dirt, this tire performs very well. It is not as aggressive as the KO2 in deep mud, but for most Trailhawk owners, it is more than enough. The tread life is excellent, often lasting over 60,000 miles.
Another benefit is the heat diffuser technology. This helps prevent heat buildup during long highway drives. It also keeps the tire cooler when crawling over rocks at low speeds.
Why It Works For The Trailhawk
- Great wet and snow traction
- Quieter than many competitors
- Long tread life warranty
- Good value for the price
3. Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac
The DuraTrac has a very aggressive tread pattern. It looks like a mud-terrain tire but drives like an all-terrain. This tire excels in deep snow and loose dirt.
On the Trailhawk, the DuraTrac provides excellent traction in rocky terrain. The tread blocks are designed to self-clean, shedding mud and stones. This keeps the tire gripping instead of slipping.
However, the DuraTrac is louder on the highway than the Falken or Toyo. If you do a lot of highway driving, this might bother you. But for off-road performance, it is hard to beat.
Considerations
- Noisier than average on pavement
- Excellent for snow and mud
- Available in stock Trailhawk sizes
- Shorter tread life than some rivals
4. Toyo Open Country A/T III
The Toyo Open Country A/T III is a balanced tire. It is quiet, comfortable, and capable. This tire is a great choice if you use your Trailhawk as a daily driver but still want off-road ability.
The tread pattern includes stone ejectors to prevent rocks from getting stuck. This reduces the chance of tire damage on gravel roads. The sidewall is also reinforced for extra protection.
In wet conditions, the Toyo performs admirably. The siping and grooves help maintain grip on slick roads. It also carries the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake rating for severe snow service.
Best For Daily Driving
- Very quiet on the highway
- Strong wet and snow performance
- Reinforced sidewalls
- Good tread life
5. Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S
The Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S is a budget-friendly option. It does not sacrifice performance for the lower price. This tire offers solid traction in mud, snow, and on rocks.
On the Trailhawk, the Cooper provides a comfortable ride. It is not as aggressive as the KO2 or DuraTrac, but it handles most off-road situations well. The tread pattern is designed for all-season use.
One thing to note is that the sidewall is not as tough as premium tires. If you frequently drive over sharp rocks, you might want a stronger option. But for general off-roading and daily driving, this is a great value.
Value Pick
- Lower price than competitors
- Good all-around traction
- Comfortable on pavement
- 65,000-mile treadwear warranty
How To Choose The Right Size For Your Trailhawk
Your Cherokee Trailhawk came with 245/65R17 tires from the factory. This is the safest size to stick with. Going larger can cause rubbing on the suspension or wheel wells.
If you want a slightly taller tire, you can fit 245/70R17 with minor modifications. This gives you more ground clearance and a better look. However, it may rub at full turn or during off-road articulation.
Always check your specific model year. Some Trailhawks have different suspension setups. When in doubt, stick with the stock size for the best fit.
Load Rating Matters
Your Trailhawk is not a heavy truck, but you still need the right load rating. Most all-terrain tires come in SL (Standard Load) or E (10-ply) ratings.
For the Cherokee, SL is fine for daily driving and light off-roading. If you carry heavy gear or tow a trailer, consider a C or D load rating. Avoid E-rated tires as they are too stiff for your Jeep.
Installation And Maintenance Tips
Once you pick your tires, proper installation is key. Have them mounted by a professional shop. They can balance them correctly and check for any clearance issues.
After installation, check your tire pressure. All-terrain tires often need different pressures than stock tires. Start with the manufacturer’s recommendation and adjust based on feel.
Rotate Your Tires Regularly
All-terrain tires wear faster if not rotated. Rotate them every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. This ensures even tread wear and extends the life of your tires.
Your Trailhawk has a full-size spare. Include it in the rotation to keep all five tires wearing evenly. This is especially important if you off-road often.
Air Down For Off-Roading
When you hit the trails, airing down your tires improves traction. Drop the pressure to around 20-25 psi for rocky terrain. This lets the tire conform to the surface.
Remember to air back up before hitting the highway. Driving on low pressure at high speeds can damage the tire. Carry a portable air compressor for convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best all terrain tire for Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk for snow?
The BFGoodrich KO2 and Falken Wildpeak A/T3W are both excellent in snow. They carry the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake rating. For deep snow, the Goodyear DuraTrac is also a strong choice.
Can I put 33-inch tires on my Trailhawk?
No, 33-inch tires are too large for a stock Trailhawk. They will rub severely and may damage your fenders. The largest safe size is 245/70R17, which is about 30.5 inches tall.
How long do all-terrain tires last on a Cherokee Trailhawk?
Most all-terrain tires last between 40,000 and 60,000 miles. The Falken Wildpeak and Cooper Discoverer often exceed this range. Proper rotation and inflation help maximize tread life.
Are all-terrain tires louder than highway tires?
Yes, all-terrain tires are generally louder due to the aggressive tread pattern. However, modern designs like the Toyo Open Country A/T III are very quiet. The KO2 and DuraTrac are on the louder side.
Do I need to lift my Trailhawk for bigger tires?
For the stock size, no lift is needed. For 245/70R17, a small lift or trimming may be required. Always test fit before committing to larger tires.
Final Thoughts On Upgrading Your Trailhawk
Choosing the Best All Terrain Tires For Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk comes down to your driving style. If you prioritize off-road toughness, the BFGoodrich KO2 is the way to go. For a balance of comfort and capability, the Falken Wildpeak is hard to beat.
Remember to consider your local climate. If you deal with heavy snow, get a tire with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake rating. If you mostly drive on pavement with occasional trails, a quieter tire like the Toyo works well.
Your Trailhawk is a capable vehicle. With the right tires, it can handle almost anything you throw at it. Take your time, read reviews, and choose the set that fits your needs best.
Don’t forget to check your spare tire. Make sure it matches the new tires in size and type. This ensures you have a consistent spare if you get a flat on the trail.
Investing in good all-terrain tires is one of the best upgrades you can make. It improves safety, performance, and the overall driving experience. Your Cherokee Trailhawk deserves the best.
Now get out there and explore. The trails are waiting, and your new tires will get you there with confidence.