CO 82 Independence Pass temporary safety closure begins tonight due to storm

Travel Advisory

October 11, 2023 - Northwestern Colorado - CDOT anticipates reopening roadway later this week

Lake & Pitkin Counties – A safety closure for CO 82 Independence Pass starts at 5 p.m. today due to a winter storm. The safety closure is not for the winter season. The pass will be closed by 5 p.m. on Oct. 11, and CDOT anticipates reopening the pass on Friday, Oct. 13. The road will reopen once weather has improved and the road is safely cleared of snow and ice.

Closure gates are located near Aspen and Twin Lakes. The safety closure is necessary to keep maintenance equipment operators and the traveling public safe during the storm. Weather forecasts show 6 to 12 inches of snow and high winds for Independence Pass during the storm.

The alternate route from the Denver Metro Area to Aspen is via westbound I-70 to Glenwood Springs, then CO 82 to Aspen. Independence Pass usually closes in November for the winter season.

Know Before You Go

Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include:

Remember: Slow For The Cone Zone

The following tips are to help you stay safe while traveling through maintenance and construction work zones.

  • Do not speed in work zones. Obey the posted speed limits.
  • Stay Alert! Expect the unexpected.
  • Watch for workers. Drive with caution.
  • Don't change lanes unnecessarily.
  • Avoid using mobile devices such as phones while driving in work zones.
  • Turn on headlights so that workers and other drivers can see you.
  • Be especially alert at night while driving in work zones.
  • Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
  • Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.
  • Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
  • Be patient!

Download the COtrip App!

The new free COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!