Independence Pass, Mountain pass in central Colorado, United States
Description
Independence Pass is a mountain pass in central Colorado that connects Aspen and Twin Lakes via Colorado State Highway 82. The road climbs steeply through narrow sections and crosses the Continental Divide at roughly 12,095 feet elevation.
History
The pass received its name on July 4, 1879, when gold prospectors crossed the mountains in defiance of government restrictions. This date became symbolic of early independence in the mountain mining era.
Culture
The Independence Pass Foundation, established in 1989, focuses on environmental preservation and maintains the natural resources of the mountain region.
Practical
The route closes annually from late October through late May due to heavy snowfall and winter conditions. Vehicles longer than about 35 feet cannot use this road.
Did you know?
The pass sits on the Continental Divide in the Sawatch Range and offers direct views of Mount Elbert. This peak is Colorado's highest mountain and dominates the landscape from this vantage point.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Lake County).
Mount Massive
11.7 km
Hotel Jerome
23.9 km
La Plata Peak
11.8 km
Ashcroft
21.1 km
Aspen Art Museum
23.6 km
Collegiate Peaks Wilderness
16.6 km
Huron Peak
21.1 km
Pitkin County Courthouse
23.7 km
Mount Massive Wilderness
12.5 km
Winfield
17.4 km
Brand Building
23.8 km
Aspen City Hall
23.8 kmMount Oklahoma
9.3 kmChampion Mill
6.1 kmFrench Mountain
7.4 km
Hunter–Fryingpan Wilderness
11.2 kmMount Blaurock
14.4 km
Sheely Bridge
23.8 km
Derry Mining Site Camp
19.1 km
Twin Lakes District
15.9 km
Mount Hope (Colorado)
15.8 km
Hayden Ranch Headquarters
21.8 km
Independence
3.5 km
Mount Elbert
10.3 km
Lost Man Trailhead
5.4 km
Twin Lakes Inn
16 km
Twin Lakes Visitor Center
15.9 km
Independence Pass Overlook
230 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes