A plow is seen next to rockfall on Highway 82 over Independence Pass. The highway is now closed for the season until spring 2025.

Highway 82 over Independence Pass closed for season

Winter safety closure ensures safety of CDOT personnel and travelers

CDOT PRESS RELEASE
October 31, 2024

The Colorado Department of Transportation has closed Colorado Highway 82 Independence Pass, between Aspen and Leadville, for the 2024/2025 winter season effective immediately. CDOT originally closed the pass temporarily on Monday, October 28, due to safety concerns surrounding winter weather conditions, but then extended the closure into the regular seasonal closure due to road damage from a recent rockfall near Mile Point 50 that required repairs and expected ongoing winter conditions.

During the seasonal closure, motorists can reach Aspen from the Denver Metro Area via westbound Interstate 70 to Glenwood Springs, then south on CO 82 to Aspen. Independence Pass closure gates will continue to be closed near Aspen and Twin Lakes until CDOT reopens the pass next spring, which is typically around the Memorial Day holiday weekend, weather permitting.

This annual seasonal closure is essential for ensuring the safety of maintenance equipment operators and the traveling public during winter. Plowing the steep switchbacks on CO 82 on either side of the pass is unsafe during the winter months, as certain sections of the roadway are at significant risk of avalanches.

Independence Pass closure history

Independence Pass historically closes in November for the winter season. Dates for closures over the past ten years are:

  • 2014 November 12
  • 2015 November 4
  • 2016 November 17
  • 2017 November 17
  • 2018 November 5
  • 2019 October 28
  • 2020 November 13
  • 2021 October 28
  • 2022 November 4
  • 2023 October 30

Independence Pass is a Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway that is maintained by CDOT. It is the highest paved state highway in Colorado, crossing the Continental Divide at 12,095 feet. Although it is paved, the road is narrow and curvy in several sections, making it difficult to navigate in poor weather. Additionally, steep drop-offs are present along the route. Some areas of the roadway can only accommodate a single car width, so drivers must exercise caution and remain alert when facing oncoming traffic.

The summit of Independence Pass is located 18 miles west of Twin Lakes and 19 miles east of Aspen, crossing the Continental Divide over the Sawatch Range. The Pass travels through 32 miles of mountainous terrain, winding through the San Isabel National Forest on the east and White River National Forest on the west side of the Divide.

During the winter months, heavy snowfall at the highest elevations makes travel impossible. Independence Pass is typically open during the summer, from Memorial Day through November, depending on weather conditions.