DrivingIndependence Pass-East to West?
 

To be on the inside lane of Independence Pass from Beaver Creek to Aspen, should we take 24 S to 82 (east to west) or should we go thru Glenwood springs to 82 South and up 24?
My husband does not like heights, so I am aprehensive about this drive-is it really that scary?

Independence Pass from Aspen to 24 is going to put you on the cliff side. If you go the other direction (and go back to Beaver Creak from Glenwood Springs on 70 you will be on the inside lane. It's a great circle. Glenwood Canyon is extraordinary and Independence Pass is just unbelievable.

watch out for the bicyclers! I still can't get over the guy I saw on a unicycle!!!!

Either way you go on Independence, there will be times yoou are on the outside. Just go through Glenwood. It adds only a half hour to the trip and your husband will thank you enourmously. Glenwood Canyon is beautiful too.

I humbly disagree with Schmutz. It would be a pity to miss this incredible route.

I disagree with Schmutz too. Independence Pass is beautiful, and my husband who doesn't like heights was fine with the drive. Just go slowly (but remember to pull over to let faster drivers pass you) and enjoy.

It's a stunning drive. And don't miss Glenwood either.

It is not scary enough to make it worth missing. You should do it. I've done it so many times, sometimes I forget that some people think of it as scary, I don't. It's just so beautiful. Although the drive through Glenwood Canyon is beautiful too and worth it, it's also 4 lane divided highway and busy. When you drive the pass it's mountains and valleys like you don't normally see them and Independence Ghost town and the Continental Divide (and of course the other motorists as well.)

Good luck deciding.