Independence Pass, part of Colorado State Highway 82, passes over the Continental Divide between Leadville and Aspen, Colorado with a summit of 12,095 ft. In addition to being a scenic byway, Independence Pass, just east of Aspen, is a favorite recreation location during the summer months.
The Colorado Department of Transportation closes the highway at the Winter Gate, 5 miles east of Aspen each winter. The time of the closure and opening is dependent on snow accumulation. Visit cotrip.org for up-to-date road closure information. Do not rely on your GPS for directions if the pass is closed.