Independence Pass
Independence Pass of Colorado was probably a great corridor for
primitive man in prehistoric times. It most likely served as a
summer hunting ground, and in recent times – the Ute Indian people
undoubtedly roamed the area and its surrounding peaks and valleys in
the course of their seasonal travels and hunts.
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In 1873, the Hayden Geological Survey conducted its first survey of the
Roaring Fork Valley. It reported great mineral potential in the
area and in 1879 the first prospectors crossed into the valley from the
Leadville area. At that time, Independence pass was called
Hunter's Pass and it acted as the gateway into the Roaring Fork Valley
from the more developed mining towns east of the Continental Divide.
B. Clark Wheeler, one of Aspen's most prominent businessmen, built the
first real road over Independence Pass in 1880-1881. There were
several bridges along the 43-mile stretch between Aspen and Twin Lakes
on the east side of the pass. Tolls were collected at these
bridges – 25 cents for horses and 50 cents for wagons.
The toll road was heavily used year-round as it was virtually the only
way in and out of the valley for ore, supplies and people. In
1887 and 1888, railroads finally reached Aspen from downriver from the
Fryingpan Valley and Hagerman Pass, and up the river from Glenwood
Springs. The advent of the railroads spelled the end for
Wheeler's toll road, which gradually fell into disuse and neglect.
In 1919, the state of Colorado allocated funds to reestablish this
route Highway 82 to motorized vehicle travel. There are
spectacular views from Independence Pass and its summit of 12,095
feet. It is a fairly narrow road and does require caution.
If you are headed for Denver or Colorado Springs from Aspen, it can
save a few hours driving time. The pass is only open during
summer months – late May to November – depending on snowfall.
45FOther pages you might find helpful:
The Independence Pass Foundation
The Independence Pass Foundation designs and implements projects that help preserve and maintain the corridor.
