Independence and Cottonwood Passes Closing for the Winter

Two area passes are closing for the season. 

Colorado Highway 82, Independence Pass, has closed for the winter. Due to continuing winter weather conditions including significant early snowfall this past weekend, the seasonal closure is now in place. Closure gates for Independence Pass are located near Aspen and Twin Lakes. Motorists can reach Aspen using I-70. 

The seasonal closure of Cottonwood Pass begins tomorrow and will be in effect from both Chaffee and Gunnison County sides. Chaffee County 306 is not maintained past the Denny Creek Trailhead and motor vehicles, except snowmobiles and snowcats, will not be allowed beyond the gate. 

Both passes usually open on the Thursday before Memorial Day weekend.