Independence Pass: One of Colorado's most scenic motorcycle routes

Independence Pass is located on Hwy 82, which passes over the Continental Divide. This invisible line, mostly made up of mountains, runs from Alaska to the southern tip of South America. It’s a geological wonder with breathtaking vistas at every turn.

Compared to some of the nation's more extensive routes, you can easily travel this route in a day. The ride across Independence Pass takes most riders about 45 minutes to complete, though it’s worthwhile to take a slower pace, making several stops to enjoy the views. So, whether you want to head out on a sunny Saturday with a group or plan a week-long Aspen adventure, Independence Pass is the perfect choice.

Many riders begin the Independence Pass route in Aspen, heading toward Twin Lakes. But the ride is awesome in either direction. Glenwood Springs and Leadville are ideal lodging locations if you're planning a multi-day adventure.

Always check CDOT to plan your route, especially if you plan to ride early or late in the season. Independence Pass typically opens around Memorial Day weekend and closes at the end of October. However, even in the summer, this road can be closed due to accidents, wildfires, or extreme weather conditions.

Check out the map to plan your route.

When you’re riding in the summer, Independence Pass can throw a little bit of everything at you weather-wise.

You could experience snow, sunshine, and lightning storms on the same day. Storms often form without warning in the mountains, especially during the summer months. To reduce your risk of being caught in a storm, plan to reach the summit earlier in the day, and then spend the rest of the day at lower elevations.

Regardless of your starting point, you’ll likely lose service as you leave town, so check the weather conditions before you continue. If there is bad weather in the forecast, consider delaying your ride.

While the weather at the summit of Independence Pass may differ from lower-elevation towns, here’s what you can expect in nearby Aspen:

This route is not for the faint of heart—it requires riding skills and confidence. Some sections turn into a single-lane road, followed by challenging or steep terrain.

You must be vigilant and aware, especially since some areas don't have guard rails or shoulders. That said, there are plenty of places among the twists and turns to pull over and take in the stunning views.

Watching your speed is imperative as you ride the Independence Pass motorcycle route. CDOT has posted advisory speeds between 10 and 30 miles per hour for the entire route. Pay attention to signage, especially when approaching turns.

While the road is closed during the winter, when avalanches are a possibility, rock slides can occur in the summer. If you ride early in the season, when the snowpack is melting, you could also ride through wet areas, as small waterfalls can flow directly onto the road. Wildlife on the road—including coyotes, mule deer, bears, and lynx—is also a possible hazard.

Lastly, pack plenty of water. Dehydration can worsen altitude sickness.

Whether you love history, shopping, nature, or all the above, there's so much to see and do in the area surrounding Independence Pass. Here are some suggestions.

Many riders begin their adventures in Aspen, a year-round ski resort town known for its outdoor recreation, historic landmarks, restaurants, and shops. The summit of Independence Pass is located just 19 miles east of Aspen. Depending on what direction you're coming from, Glenwood Springs, known for its natural hot springs, is also worth checking out on your way. Don't miss out on Sweet Coloradough if you have a sweet tooth.

Be sure to also stop in Independence, a preserved ghost town located 16 miles southeast of Aspen on Hwy 82. Several buildings remain in this historic mining town, including a stable, houses, a general store, and the Farwell Stamp Mill, once used to process mined ore.

There’s a reason why Twin Lakes is a popular spot for photographers—it's breathtaking. The town’s namesake pair of alpine, glacier-carved lakes are approximately 15 minutes south of Leadville and 18 miles east of the summit of Independence Pass. Here, you'll find a historic village surrounded by mountains that are over 13,000 feet high.

This former silver mining town is home to the Leadville Historic District, which was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1961. Enjoy 70 square blocks of original Victorian architecture and 50 turn-of-the-century buildings. The town also sits at the highest altitude of any incorporated city in North America.

Leadville is an ideal home base if you plan on exploring the surrounding area after finishing the Independence Pass motorcycle route. There's no shortage of accommodations, including cabin rentals, historic hotels, B&Bs, and campsites.