Independence Pass opened for the 2025 summer season on Thursday, May 22, at 4 p.m. This marked the first time the road was open since late October 2024. The opening followed avalanche mitigation operations and essential roadway repairs by crews from the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) to ensure the route was safe for travel. Independence Pass connects Twin Lakes in Park County with Aspen in Pitkin County and is typically closed during the winter months from late October through mid to late May. Vehicles 35 feet or longer are prohibited on the pass due to its narrow lanes and steep curves.
