Colorado’s 12,095-Foot Drive Is Not for the Faint of Heart

If you have little to no experience driving over Colorado's Rocky Mountains, then Independence Pass might make you a little uneasy. While each one of the state's mountain passes is a little different, they all deserve your respect.

I had a chance to cross Independence Pass just a few days ago in early September, and it was a beautiful way to spend a Friday morning. Scroll through the photos below to see why it's one of Colorado's most talked-about mountain roads.

Colorado's Independence Pass: Summit Views and the Independence Townsite

Colorado's Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway is true to its name, as the route includes one of the highest paved mountain roads over the Continental Divide. Independence Pass climbs to over 12,000 feet, allowing passage between the White River and the San Isabel National Forests. Here's a firsthand look at the summit and the nearby historic ghost town of Independence.

WARNING: Under no circumstances should you enter the structures in the Independence townsite. By doing so, you risk bodily harm and/or prosecution for trespassing.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

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Colorado's Independence Pass: Driving Through the Narrows

Driving Independence Pass in Colorado? Here’s What to Expect — TSM GJ W Adams

If there is a scary side to Independence Pass, it's on the Aspen side. Approaching the pass from the North means you'll need to navigate two sections of highway where the road "narrows" down to one lane. The yellow dividing line disappears, and you are blind to whatever may be entering the narrows from the opposite side. It is so important that you obey the 10-15 mph speed limits while driving this pass. Mistakes can send you falling 500 feet down the mountain.

Budget Time To Walk Through the Independence Townsite

Many of Colorado's ghost towns must be viewed from a distance. Not Independence. Keep a sharp eye out for the "Point of Interest" marker, and carefully pull into the gravel parking area for the Independence townsite. A 1-mile trail lets you wander the townsite and get up close to the remaining structures. It's important not to touch anything or remove anything from the townsite.

WARNING: Under no circumstances should you enter the structures at the Independence townsite. By doing so, you risk bodily harm and/or prosecution for trespassing.

The Summit Trail to Independence Overlook

From the parking area, you can access a short 0.3-mile trail to Independence Overlook, facing southeast. There are great views of La Plata Peak, Star Mountain, and Ouray Peak and the surrounding wilderness area. From the summit, you can also access the Independence Summit ridgeline trail.

MORE: Colorado's Mountain Passes Ranked By Elevation

Maintain a good grip on the steering wheel because we traveling to the top of the Rockies via Colorado's extreme mountain passes. Scroll on to learn more about mountain passes above 10,000 feet throughout the state.

Gallery Credit: Wes Adams

KEEP GOING: It's Easy To See Why Colorado Loves the Maroon Bells

The twin 14,000-foot peaks overlooking Maroon Lake draw visitors from around the world, but understanding the shuttle system, parking rules, and mountain safety tips can make the experience far more enjoyable.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

Source: Is Colorado’s Independence Pass Really That Scary to Drive?