📷 Photo by Jordi Vich Navarro on UnsplashIndependence Pass
Twin Lakes, CO
A 12,095-foot pass over the Continental Divide, closed in winter. Vehicles over 35 feet are banned.
- Nearest town
- Twin Lakes, CO
- Category
- Scenic viewpoints
- GPS
- 39.1083, -106.5640
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually June and September. Still fine, with some compromises, in May, July–August and October. Cold, short days in December–February. Mountain passes on this route are usually open June–October. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Getting there
- Independence Pass (CO-82) (3,687 m). Usually open June–October; outside that window the road can be closed by snow. Alternative: Go round via I-70 and Glenwood Springs.
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Dorchester CampgroundCampsite11 mi from Independence Pass
- Chapman CampgroundCampsite15 mi from Independence Pass · 84 pitchesTentsCaravans
- Belle of Colorado CampgroundCampsite16 mi from Independence PassTents
- Elk Wallow CampgroundCampsite17 mi from Independence Pass · 7 pitchesTentsCaravans
- Taylor Park Trading PostMotorhome stopover20 mi from Independence PassMotorhomes
- Cement Creek CampgroundCampsite24 mi from Independence Pass · 13 pitchesDrinking waterToilets
All campsites in Colorado · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Independence Pass?
Independence Pass is in Twin Lakes, CO, at GPS 39.1083, -106.5640. It is about 15 mi from Aspen.
Can you camp near Independence Pass?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Lost Man Campground, about 3 mi away; within 25 mi there are 76 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Independence Pass?
Independence Pass is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Top of the Rockies to Aspen and Sand dunes, fourteeners and silver towns – by camper from the San Luis Valley over the Collegiate Peaks to Aspen.
What is there to see near Independence Pass?
Places worth a stop nearby: Maroon Bells (23 mi), Kebler Pass (34 mi), Hanging Lake (47 mi) and Loveland Pass (53 mi).
When is the best time to visit Independence Pass?
The most pleasant months are usually June and September. Still fine, with some compromises, in May, July–August and October. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)