Independence Pass

At 12,095 feet, Independence Pass is one of the highest paved mountain passes in the United States. Independece Pass is the summit of the Top of the Rockies National Scenic & Historic Byway and is located between Twin Lakes Village and Aspen.Independence Pass serves as the eastern gateway to the Roaring Fork Valley, as well as a historic link between the Western Slope and communities on the Front Range. Thousands of people—from Colorado "locals" to international visitors—travel over the pass from its opening in May to its closing in the fall.Facilities at the summit include vault toilets and a paved trail that provides pedestrian access to a scenic viewing platform, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the glacier-sculpted peaks and ridges of the Continental Divide. Don't forget your camera in the car!Nearby spots of interest are the Independence Pass Trail, The Interlaken Historic Resort, Twin Lakes Historical District and Interlaken Trail.