Is Independence Pass closed winter?

Asked by: Ryan Coach

Each year, this two-lane, 12,095-foot pass closes for the winter for the safety of the travelling public and CDOT maintenance crews. It typically closes on or near Nov. 7 and almost always re-opens on the Thursday before Memorial Day each May.

Is Independence Pass in Colorado Open or closed?

Independence Pass, Colorado’s highest continuous paved state highway, has reopened for the season to travelers.

What passes are closed in Colorado?

Seasonal Road Closures in Colorado

• Kebler Pass – Crested Butte to Paonia. Kebler Pass in the fall. …
• Independence Pass – Twin Lakes to Aspen. Independence Pass in July. …
• Mount Evans – Idaho Springs to 14,000’+ Mount Evans Road. …
• Cottonwood Pass – Buena Vista to Almont. Cottonwood Pass in the summer.

Can you turn around on Independence Pass?

From Aspen to the peak of the Pass is about 20 miles, but riders can turn around at any point and come back to town. Hiking trails: There are several trails to enjoy right off of the pass ranging from easy to difficult depending on your interests and hiking level.

Is Independence Pass in Colorado paved?

Part of State Highway 82, it is the highest paved state highway over the Continental Divide in Colorado. Though it is a paved road, it can be narrow and winding and therefore difficult to traverse in poor weather. It also has steep dropoffs in places along the route.

What roads close in the winter in Colorado?

If traveling throughout the state this winter, here are seasonal and temporary road closures to watch out for.

• Trail Ridge Road (extended closure) …
• Kebler Pass (extended closure) …
• Mount Evans Highway (extended closure) …
• Independence Pass (extended closure) …
• Cottonwood Pass (extended closure)

Can you get to Silverton in winter?

Best to arrive the night before to be safe. Roads leading to Silverton can close during the winter due to major storms or avalanche conditions. While we have no say in these closures it does help to check with the Colorado Department of Transportation’s website before making your trip down here.

How much snow does Independence Pass get?

During seasonal peaks, snowpack on this mountain can reach levels as high as 98″, while the historical average snowpack during the winter sits around 33″.

Why is Independence Pass in Colorado closed?

Each year, this two-lane, 12,095-foot pass closes for the winter for the safety of the travelling public and CDOT maintenance crews. It typically closes on or near Nov. 7 and almost always re-opens on the Thursday before Memorial Day each May.

Is Independence Pass worth the drive?

“Gorgeous!” Absolutely beautiful drive with lots of places to get off the road and have a picnic or just spend some time enjoying… The road narrows to one lane, bicycles abound, moose show up unexpectedly, its all part of a vacation in Colorado.

What is the steepest grade on I 70?

The Eisenhower Summit is located on Interstate 70, approximately 9 miles east of Dillon, Colorado.
Eisenhower Pass Tunnel Westbound.

Where is Independence Pass closed?

HIGHWAY 82 OVER INDEPENDENCE PASS IS CURRENTLY CLOSED TO VEHICLES. View of the Top Cut (1/2 mile before the summit on the west side of the Pass) on May 15, 2022.