Cottonwood Pass is officially closed as of today. County officials note that no winter maintenance will occur beyond the gate on County Road 306 until further notice.

Meanwhile, Independence Pass (Highway 82) between Twin Lakes and Aspen remains open. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) will determine when to close Independence Pass based on upcoming weather and road conditions.

Travelers are advised to check current road conditions and plan accordingly, as mountain passes can experience rapidly changing winter weather.

Colorado travelers can check road conditions through official sources to get real-time, reliable updates:

  1. Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) – Road Conditions
    • Website: https://www.cotrip.org
    • Features: Interactive maps, current closures, construction updates, travel times, and webcam images from key highways and mountain passes.
  2. CDOT Phone Line
    • Dial 511 within Colorado (or 1-877-315-7623 from outside the state).
    • Provides automated updates on road conditions, closures, and construction.
  3. CDOT Twitter Feed
    • Twitter: @coloradodot
    • Updates on accidents, closures, and severe weather affecting roads.