Colorado’s Independence Pass, running along State Highway 82 between Lake County and Pitkin County, has been closed since yesterday as winter weather hits the state. The Piktin County Sheriff’s Office announced the closure ahead of the weather, noting that conditions will be reevaluated later this week.
The Colorado Department of Transportation is set to evaluate the road on Wednesday, October 30, to determine if a reopening is possible. The two-lane, 12,095-foot pass is closed every year during the winter for the safety of both travelers and CDOT maintenance crews, though this usually takes place on or around November 7.
The road closure runs from Lincoln Creek Road on the Pitkin County side to the winter closure gate on the Lake County side. Lincoln Creek is still accessible, though any drivers should be aware of the significant snowfall forecasted that crews will not be clearing Lincoln Creed road.
Even when Independence Pass is clear of snow and open, drivers are encouraged to use extra caution and be aware that cyclists are often present and potentially difficult to spot along the road. Rockfall can also be an issue along the road and, though infrequent, can cause closures.
“The character and natural beauty of the Pass draw a large number of bicyclists and sightseers. Consequently, sharing access to this Scenic and Historic Byway requires considerable attention.” – CDOT