0   (0=Paved, 6=Very Difficult 4WD)
Paved (Elevation 12,095')

Independence Pass is the summit of Colorado State Highway 82 as it runs between Twin Lakes and Aspen. The pass is located on the Continental Divide. To reach CO 82 from the east follow US 24 approximately 14 miles south of Leadville or 20 miles north of Buena Vista to the signed turn-off. From the west, CO 82 runs from Glenwood Springs to Aspen and continues through Aspen, follow the signs to negotiate a few turns in Aspen. The pass has some tight switchbacks and may not be negotiable by vehicles with large trailers.

The pass is closed in winter. The east side gate is at appx 10,475 at Graham Gulch, just west of the standard TH for La Plata Peak around MM 68. The west side gate is apprx 10 mile east of Aspen.