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-   -   Highway 82 & Independence Pass (https://www.fodors.com/community/united-states/highway-82-and-independence-pass-906264/)

mikemcd77 Sep 15th, 2011 11:22 PM

Highway 82 & Independence Pass
 
On Oct. 19th I plan to see Maroon Bells and then drive Highway 82 to U.S. 24. I know there's a pull-off at the summit, but are there also any other places where I could pull off to snap a quick photo along this scenic highway?
I've read that it takes at least 90min. to drive from Aspen to U.S. 24. So, for planning purposes, if there are no other places to pull off, then I guess that this entire drive will take 90 minutes plus the amount of time I spend parked at the summit?

Melnq8 Sep 16th, 2011 12:12 AM

I seem to recall several turn outs. FYI - the pass generally closes for the winter after the first snowfall and snow in October certainly isn't unheard of.

Enjoy CO.

qwovadis Sep 16th, 2011 01:34 AM

I have actually done I Pass in a 34 foot Airstream Land Yacht
motor home road was VERY narrow steep drops a few places to pull
off not many NO way whatsoever to turn around with a big rig.
If you meet another big rig along the way might take some navigating the get around so plan for VERY tight connections.Took about 90 minutes.Lots of photo ops more
than pull offs to take the photos.Best to go very slow.

Happy Travels!

fmpden Sep 16th, 2011 08:34 AM

There is more than an even probability that the pass will be closed by that time. The first heavy snow will do it because there is no place to push the snow - no shoulders to speak of. We have already had two snow falls above 8500 feet and CDOT is quick to close the pass because of maintenance issues. I would have an alternate plan.

socialworker Sep 16th, 2011 06:03 PM

We drove this road in the summer of '77 and at that time, they said it often is closed by late September. October 19th may be an optimistic plan. I agree with the idea of having a back-up in mind.

mikemcd77 Sep 23rd, 2011 11:57 AM

thanks for everyone's responses!


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