Seasonal closure in place for CO 82 Independence Pass until Spring

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KJCT) - The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has closed Colorado Highway 82 Independence Pass, between Aspen and Leadville, for the 2024/2025 winter season.

CDOT originally closed the pass temporarily on Monday, October 28, due to safety concerns surrounding winter weather conditions, but extended the closure due to road damage from a recent rockfall near Mile Point 50 and expected ongoing winter conditions.

Independence Pass closure gates will continue to be closed near Aspen and Twin Lakes until CDOT reopens the pass next spring.

Independence Pass Closure History Over the Past Ten Years 2023 October 302022 November 4 2021 October 28 2020 November 13 2019 October 282018 November 52017 November 172016 November 172015 November 42014 November 12 The annual closure was put in place to ensure the safety of maintenance equipment operators and the traveling public during the winter season, especially since certain sections of the pass are at high risk of avalanches occurring.

Independence Pass is generally open during the summer, from Memorial Day through November, depending on weather conditions.