Independence Pass to Aspen

Journey on this epic highway above the clouds and get to a place that few ever visit, The Great Continental Divide. Highway 82, known as Independence Pass, climbs up into the Rocky Mountains and takes you to a breathtaking elevation of 12,095ft. above sea level. Here lives the Great Divide, which splits the water that drains to the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. This awe-inspiring highway gets even more enticing because it connects two legendary mountain towns, Aspen and Buena Vista.

At 12,095 ft, Independence Pass is one of the highest paved passes in North America! On your drive, you will pass by the tallest mountain in Colorado, Mt. Elbert, and on the opposite (south) side you will pass La Plata Peak (the 5th largest mountain in CO).

The drive weaves through 2 National Forests, White River and Gunnison, in the Sawatch Mountain Range. You will have up close views of the historic avalanche paths that now exist due to Colorado’s epic 2018-2019 winter. You’ll be blown away by the amount of destruction snow can naturally do to mountains.

From Aspen:

Drive south all the through Main Street Aspen. Look for signs along the way that will help direct you to Hwy 82. After exiting the bulk of main st. you’ll take a left on E. Cooper Rd. This road soon becomes HWY 82 and you’ll be headed directly towards Independence Pass. The drive from Aspen to Buena Vista is about 1 hour and 45 minutes long, depending on stops along the way. Coming from I-70 outside of Vail, the drive takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, taking the route south through Leadville.

From Buena Vista:

Travel North on HWY 24 while passing through Buena Vista. You’ll stay on this road for about 18 miles. After you pass the tiny town of Granite you’ll see a sign for Twin Lakes and turn left onto HWY 82. This will take you directly up to Independence Pass. Take a moment to enjoy the beautiful glacial lakes that the town Twin Lakes is named after. Be aware of officer Mani Quin who likes to sit in the small town of Twin Lakes.

Riding Tips:

• Use extreme caution around cliffs and steep drop offs along the drive. 

• There are a few spots on the west side of the pass that are narrow and only accommodate one car.

• Be very aware of oncoming traffic and go slow.

• Pay close attention near avalanche paths, as there are bumps and cracks in the pavement.

• Overweight and oversized vehicles are prohibited on the road.

Must See:

• Explore the paved scenic trails at the summit. 

• The Grottos: This easy 0.5 mile loop explores ice caves, waterfalls, and amazing rock formations.

• Independence Ghost Town: located just past the summit towards Aspen lies the remains of the first mining site in the Roaring Fork Valley. This archeological preserve features interpretive stations and a self guided journey through history.

Aspen sits in the middle of White River National Forest, making it an amazing place to experience wildlife, explore trails, and relax amongst the mountains. This beautiful town is known globally because of the Maroon Bells, one of the most photographed mountains in North America, and is a sight you simply cannot miss. In addition to the world class outdoor scene, Aspen also has plentiful dining choices and is home to the most unique music venue in Colorado, Belly Up. Rolling Stone Magazine listed Belly Up as one of the “Best Clubs In America” and is admired by locals for the world class talent that rolls through. This mountain town is simply amazing.

Enjoy Independence Pass with the 2019 Polaris Slingshot SL today. This open air cockpit machine allows you and a passenger to enjoy all the views over the Great Divide. It also boosts 173 horsepower and a completely waterproof interior. Rocky Mountain Adventure Rentals is excited to rent these quality machines out for a daily rate of $299 from either our Buena Vista or Vail location.