Photo by Max HarlynkingIndependence Pass
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3 expert tips“The pass is seasonal (typically June through late October) and closed to vehicles over 35 feet — check CDOT for current status.”
Roman, Fyno expert“Late July through August is peak wildflower season — the tundra blooms with columbine, paintbrush, and alpine sunflowers.”
Roman, Fyno expert“Sunrise from the summit parking area is exceptional and the lot is empty at that hour.”
Roman, Fyno expert
Scenic drivesSoaring mountainsEpic views
Curated byRomanUpdated I’d put Independence Pass on the list for a scenic drive.
More about this place
Independence Pass is one of the highest paved mountain passes in the United States, cresting at 12,095 feet on the Continental Divide between Aspen and Twin Lakes. The drive over the pass on CO-82 is among the most beautiful road journeys in Colorado, passing through alpine tundra, wildflower meadows, and dramatic rocky landscapes with sweeping views in every direction.
At the summit, a short interpretive trail leads to a Continental Divide overlook with views of fourteeners in multiple directions. The pass also serves as a gateway to excellent hiking, including trails into the Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness and a challenging route up to 13,000-foot ridgelines.
From the Twin Lakes side, the approach passes two stunning glacially-formed lakes beneath Colorado's second-highest peak, Mount Elbert (14,439 feet), creating one of the most photogenic mountain-and-lake pairings in the state.
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