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Independence Pass


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Independence Pass

A high mountain pass at elevation 12,095 ft on the Continental Divide, midway between Aspen and Twin Lakes. State Highway 82 traverses the pass for 32 miles.

Due to heavy snowfall, the Pass is open only from early summer thru early fall. The target reopening date each spring is the Thursday before the Memorial Day holiday weekend, but visit www.cotrip.org before you travel to check the status.  Or you can call the Leadville Ranger district at 719-486-0749 or the Aspen Ranger district at 970-925-3445. The Independence Pass Foundation also has recreation and access information. 

When the pass is open, it is a popular above-treeline destination for scenic views, leaf-peeping, and recreation. Numerous social trails lead to nearby ridges, streams, and mountain summits. For detailed climbing and bouldering information, check out Independence Pass Rock Climbing. There are several campgrounds on both the east and west side of the Pass.  For reservations and season dates, go to www.recreation.gov.

Alternate titles - 

North Fork Creek Trail USFS #1483
Lost Man Loop (West) TH USFS #1996.1

  • Suitable Activities: Backcountry Nordic Skiing, Backcountry Skiing/Splitboarding, Camping, Climbing, Hiking, Scrambling, Snowshoeing
  • Seasons: June, July, August, September, October
  • Weather: View weather forecast
  • Avalanche Terrain Rating Complex View avalanche forecast.
  • 12,095 ft
  • Land Manager: Land Manager Varies
    Hunter Fryingpan Wilderness Area, Leadville Ranger District (PSINF)
  • Parking Permit Required: Other
  • Recommended Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Party Size: 15
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
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This is a list of titles that represent the variations of trips you can take at this route/place. This includes side trips, extensions and peak combinations. Not seeing a title that fits your trip? Log in and send us updates, images, or resources.

  • Independence Pass - North Fork Creek Trail
  • Independence Pass - Lost Man Loop (West) TH
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