Independence Pass Remains Closed for the Season

The pass closure includes the area from just east of Aspen to west of Twin Lakes, approximately 18 miles.

CDOT had closed Independence Pass on the morning of October 31—seven days ahead of the target seasonal closure date of November 7. This early closure was not known to be permanent at the time, as crews assessed conditions daily to determine if a reopen would be feasible and safe.

Due to the snowfall and adverse conditions, as well as another storm in the forecast for tonight and tomorrow, the season closure is now in place.

STAY INFORMED THIS WINTER - Throughout the winter, motorists are advised to check CDOT’s traveler information site at www.cotrip.org before making their travel plans. For road condition information, the public may also call 511 from anywhere in the state. Better yet, the public and media are encouraged to sign up for text messages or emails on road conditions and area press releases by going to CDOT’s web site and choosing the green mobile phone icon in the upper right corner.

The 12,095-foot pass is closed for the winter every year for the safety of the traveling public. Each spring, CDOT plans the opening of Independence Pass for Memorial Day weekend in May, weather permitting. The alternate route to Aspen during the months Independence Pass is closed is I-70 to Glenwood Springs, and SH 82 into Aspen.

Ice and snow….take it slow!