Sorry, your blog cannot share posts by email. Independence Pass is OPEN for the 2020 summer season. Work included the construction of stone With the success of these projects, IPF has been doing revegetation projects along the road below the Top Cut since 2004. The tundra is home to specialized plants and animals which have adapted to the short growing season, harsh weather and extreme temperatures which characterize the highest life zones. Wilderness designations also protect the unique tundra environment at the summit of Independence Pass. The tundra is home to specialized plants and animals which have adapted to the short growing season, harsh weather and extreme temperatures which characterize the highest life zones. A travel guidebook for automobile touring produced by the The highway rises in a series of loops and curves towards the Continental Divide. At an elevation of 12,095’ above sea level, Highway 82 over Independence Pass is the highest paved road crossing of the Continental Divide in North America. Independence Pass was simply beautiful and breathtaking. The pass is midway between Aspen and Twin Lakes, on … When the pass is open in warmer weather, it is a popular destination. At an elevation of 12,095’ above sea level, Highway 82 over Independence Pass is the highest paved road crossing of the Continental Divide in North America. It’s fun to stand on the ridge and visualize the fact that all rain that falls on one side of the mountain flows into the Atlantic Ocean while the rain that falls on the other side flows into the Pacific Ocean.There is roadside parking atop the pass and two privies for visitors to use. Find a trail. At the Grottos climbing cliffs eight miles (14.4 km) 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. Highest paved passes in Colorado, all cross the Continental Divide: Cottonwood Pass, Buena Vista… Find a trail. It is a popular Four miles (6.4 km) west of the pass is the site of Even when the pass is open, not all vehicles may use the road. The drive is very pretty but one must pay attention to the narrow roads … Sorry, your blog cannot share posts by email. It is at elevation 12,095 ft on the Continental Divide in the Sawatch Range. Independence Pass, originally known as Hunter Pass, is a high mountain pass in the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado in the United States. Please stay on paths and trails to avoid damaging this fragile environment which can take decades to recover from disturbance.An area of undeveloped Federal land retaining its primeval character and influence, without permanent improvements or human habitation.A sign about the Continental Divide provided by the Independence Pass Foundation reads: (Click to expand)A sign about the environment provided by the Independence Pass Foundation reads: (Click to expand) Independence Pass (12,095 ft), originally called Hunter Pass, is a mountain pass along the Continental Divide accessed by Highway 82 that connects Aspen to Twin Lakes. A trail at the top provides a short paved loop from the parking area to scenic views of the Elk Mountains. It is absolutely amazing how the continental divide can be in Colorado and understand the water flowing evenly into the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean. Post was not sent - check your email addresses! The pass is midway between Aspen and Twin Lakes, … The snow provided a stunning and exceedingly rare backdrop on a hot summer day.