One of the area’s premier attractions. Independence Pass, in the Fall. Visited by thousands of people each year. The 32-mile drive from Aspen to Twin Lakes, CO, features breathtaking views, grottos and ice caves. There are even rock climbs around the area.
Tourists often bog down the pass during the summer months. Beautiful vista overlooks and viewing stations are the main attraction.
When summer crowds begin to subside, fall’s cool embrace creeps through the mountains. The aspen trees come alive in a beautiful and vibrant display of gold, orange, and yellow.
THE DRIVE AND THE VIEWS
As you drive up the pass (away from Aspen and toward Twin Lakes), the road eventually reaches the Continental Divide. The Divide stands 12,095 feet above sea level. At the divide you will find a parking lot that offers access to incredible views. Mountain ranges filled with peaks over 14,000 feet tall. South of the parking lot is the old jeep trail. This trail offers a popular intermediate hike. This hike will bring you to the Mountain Boy Ridge.
This majestic vantage point offers exceptional panoramic views of the Rockies that are not accessible from the Pass. Trek to Mountain Boy Ridge with care. The thin air can catch you off guard if you’re not used to the altitude.
Here are a few tips to get adjusted to the altitude.
GOLDEN LEAVES, HIGH ALPINE VIEWS, AND MINING HISTORY
Aside from the incredible mountain views and golden leaves, the drive up Independence Pass lets you cruise through a bit of history. In 1881, builders completed the first toll road connecting Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley to the mining towns east of the Continental Divide. Travelers once stopped at rest stops and inns along the route, and today, their remnants host summer campgrounds.
Structures from the pass’s mining glory days and the ghost town of Independence remain sprinkled through the woods and meadows of the pass. On your way up the pass, be sure to stop and read the “Points of Interest” stations to learn even more about Aspen’s mining history.
INDEPENDENCE PASS LOCAL INSIDER TIP
For a brisk and invigorating autumn dip in the cool mountain snowmelt, head to the Devil’s Punchbowl near mile marker 51 off Highway 82. The raging water of the Roaring Fork River naturally created this distinctive deep pool, which is calmer during the fall months. This allows swimmers to relax by the water’s edge or dive off of the cliffs (for those adventurous types).
This is a favorite hangout for locals, so expect to see some friendly faces.
