Independence Pass

Independence Pass has a high point of 12,095 feet. It is ringed with 13,000-foot peaks, including Mt. Champion, Geissler Mountain, Twining Peak, Grizzly Peak and Casco Peak. The drive features spectacular views and hairpin turns.

Please note: Commercial and recreational vehicles 35 feet or longer are prohibited, including trailers with a combined length of more than 35 feet. The restriction is due to tight curves, steep inclines and narrow lanes between Mile Point 47.2 (Aspen side) and MP 84.2 (Leadville/Twin Lakes side, about one mile west of the junction with US 24).

In summer, the drive from Leadville to Aspen is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes; from Twin Lakes, 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Driving Directions to Aspen in Winter

Independence Pass is open from Memorial Day weekend to early to mid October. The road is closed for winter from late October until late May. The closure’s exact timing depends on snowfall. The pass is now closed for the 2023-2024 winter.

To drive from Twin Lakes to Aspen in winter, take U.S. 24 West to I-70 West to Highway 82 East. The winter drive from Leadville to Aspen takes approximately 2.5 hours; from Twin Lakes, approximately 3 hours. Check COTrip.org for pass closure information, road conditions, and route information.