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4.73 out of 5 Rider Rating 4.73
17 Reviews

Independence Pass (State Route 82)

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By Guest (0 McR Points) on Apr 30, 2005

Rider Reviews

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Poola
February 22, 2012
Independence Pass was beautiful! We were there in…
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Guest
September 11, 2010
Great views, great picture opportunities both at…
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Written Directions

There are a couple different ways you can get to the starting point for this route. - You can access this route from the west by just getting to Aspen and heading East out of town on state route 82! - If you're coming from the east (ex. Denver) you can just take I-70 west into the mountains and exit onto state route 24 right around Vail, CO. Take s.r. 24 past Leadville and look for the signs to Twin Lakes, CO and state route 82. Take 82 West to/through Independence Pass and on to Aspen.

Scenery

Typical dense forest at the lower elevations with endless switchbacks. Ghost town of Independence near the top of the pass. Breath taking views of the famous Maroon Bells area of the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Independence Pass crests at 12,095 feet so you know you'll be taking in some great views of the Rockies!!! River canyons to ride in and lots of pullouts to take pics! The following was contributed by "Marcus (TheHog)" in Sep of 2014: It is an awesome ride from Twin Lakes to Aspen. Spectacular scenery with plenty of photo opportunities. There are numerous places to safely pull of to the side stretch the legs and take some pics! At the beginning of the ride wether you are starting in Aspen or starting from Twin Lakes you will have winding tree lined roads. Twin lakes is very off the beaten path. Not many tourists. As you climb to the top of pass you will encounter steep and sharp switchbacks with breathtaking views of the Continental Divide. The pass is above tree line, so the surrounding terrain is alpine tundra. Open grassy expanses are occasionally broken by low shrubbery and bare patches of rock, particularly on the steep slope to the north. Snow lingers in some areas year-round.

Drive Enjoyment

Road is narrow and steep! Expect endless switchbacks, sharp curves, extreme drop off's and very narrow roads at different spots! Even down to one lane in some areas, so believe the warning signs!!! The following was contributed by "Marcus (TheHog)" in Sep of 2014: The road I thought was very well maintained considering the location. Smooth blacktop for the most part. It does narrow down to what most people would consider one lane in a few sections so be careful and approach with caution. Steep sections of switchbacks on both sides of the pass. Nice parking area with bathrooms when you reach the pass.

Tourism Opportunities

Basically Twin Lakes area on the East end and Aspen on the West. Not much in between, but who cares! You will be busy holding on!! The following was contributed by "Marcus (TheHog)" in Sep of 2014: Many visitors stop at the parking lot and walk the paved path to the scenic overlook. In clear enough weather it offers views east of Mount Elbert, Colorado's highest peak! East of Aspen, there are many popular rock climbing areas. At the Grottos climbing cliffs eight miles to the west of the pass, a short trail leads to an area along the river known as the Devil's Punchbowl, with high stone cliffs on either side and waterfalls. It is a popular swimming hole due to its deep and cool waters. The river is popular a popular trout fishing place as well.

Motorcycle Road Additional info

*** If you like the Beartooth or Trail Ridge Road, you will love this one! You won't find many cages on this route! - View the weather forecast for this area from Yahoo weather .
 

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Guest
August 27, 2008
0 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Touring
We made the trip on a Sunday in late July (East-West). The roads were very good with spectacular views. Aspen was picturesque; unfortunately traffic back into Denver on 70 was terrible. Recommend not taking 70 on late Sunday afternoons.
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GJRonK
November 25, 2019
2629 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Cruiser
-- Nice write up. Describes well the sights. Keep in mind Aspen is a hub for tourists and is always crowded. A fun side run is up Castle Creek just as approaching Aspen. --
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CO Wanderer
September 5, 2016
8 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Standard
A great road in 2016. Several very narrow portions in the miles closest to Aspen. I went East to West and the road up to the pass was great. The road on the western side of the pass has many more driveways, increasing as you get closer to Aspen. Plan to stop often for the views.
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