User:S4n1HS22WMX695In/Sandbox

S4n1HS22WMX695In/Sandbox

View from the summit of Independence Pass

Independence Pass (elevation: 12,095 ft (3,687 m)) is a high mountain pass crossing the Sawatch Range of the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado in the United States. Although a "pass" is technically a low point in a mountain ridge, Independence Pass often refers to the 32 mi (*1) section of road connecting Aspen and Twin Lakes. The two-lane, paved road is part of Colorado State Highway 82, starting in Glenwood Springs and ending when it meets US-24. It is part of the National Scenic Byway system. The road is typically open for only five months of the year, from the end of May through October. It is closed to vehicles the rest of the year due to heavy snowfall. The trip from Aspen to the junction with US-24 is about 43 miles over the pass. The alternate route is significantly longer at about 144 mi but allows for higher driving speeds (*google maps).

Independence Pass has several switchbacks and many sharp turns, so vehicles longer than 35 ft (11 m) are prohibited (*1). There are also some very narrow sections that prevent wide vehicles from using the pass ___(the width limit is:___)___. In some of these sections, the centerline is no longer painted, but the road is still officially two lanes. There is just enough room for two average cars to pass.

References

"Bicycle Tour of Colorado". Retrieved 22 August 2009.

External links

• Independence Pass Photos & Discussion Forum
• Topographic map
• USGS TopoZone listing