Independence Pass Closes For Season

Independence Pass is closed for the season. The Colorado Department of Transportation, which manages the scenic byway, says the closure comes earlier than usual. For the past eight years, the agency says the pass had closure dates falling in early to mid-November.

The pass connects Twin Lakes and Aspen through the San Isabel and White River National Forests. It crosses the Continental Divide, and its summit sits at 12,095 feet in elevation.

The closure comes as CDOT maintenance crews determined it was necessary to keep workers and the public safe.

CDOT says the alternate route to Aspen is along I-70 and then CO-80 south from Glenwood Springs. The agency says the pass usually opens by the Memorial Day weekend, but it's always dependent on the weather.

Updated road conditions are available at COTRIP.org.