Independence Pass closed due to safety incidents, heavy traffic

PITKIN/LAKE COUNTIES – The Colorado Department of Transportation has closed Highway 82 over Independence Pass due to heavy traffic and safety concerns. It will remain closed until further notice.  

With Interstate 70 closed between Glenwood Springs and Gypsum due to wildfires, traffic has been using CO. 82, although it is not an advised detour route. The combination of heavy traffic, the narrow width of the highway in several locations and vehicle length restrictions are creating unsafe travel conditions. Multiple vehicles towing trailers became stuck on the pass and forced closures on the road. CDOT crews are continuing to work to safely move all vehicles through the area.

The eastbound closure point is a few miles east of Aspen; westbound is several miles west of Twin Lakes at the intersection of U.S. 24.  

Highway 82 will remain closed until further notice.  Please refer to www.cotrip.org for the latest information on road closures and conditions.