You have one last chance to travel Independence Pass before it shuts down for winter, unless an incoming snowstorm doesn’t produce.
CDOT is closing the pass (Highway 82) between Twin Lakes and Aspen at 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 15, in anticipation of the first real snowstorm this season. Snow and strong winds are expected late Sunday and into next week.
But, if the storm is weaker than predicted, the pass could reopen for one last hurrah. If it does, it will be the latest since 2017, when the pass closed Nov. 17.
“Recognizing the access Independence Pass provides for Pitkin County residents, visitors and others, our maintenance teams consider several factors when deciding whether to close the pass — whether for a short-term storm event or the full seasonal closure,” said Jason Smith, CDOT’s Regional Transportation Director for Northwest Colorado, in a statement. “Of all the factors involved, the safety of the traveling public and our CDOT personnel remains paramount.”
During the winter months, heavy snowfall at the highest elevations of the pass makes it impossible to travel. Weather permitting, and after crews have evaluated the roadway for safety, CDOT typically reopens the pass the week prior to Memorial Day weekend.
