Top of the Rockies to Aspen

Route description

From Denver, take I-70 west into the mountains, then CO-91 south over Fremont Pass to Leadville, a Victorian mining town above 10,000 feet. At this altitude, drink plenty of water and take it easy on the first day.

US-24 leads south to Twin Lakes, where CO-82 begins its climb to Independence Pass at 12,095 feet on the Continental Divide. The pass is closed in winter, vehicles over 35 feet are banned, and on the Aspen side the road narrows to a single lane in places, with steep drops.

The road descends through forest to Aspen. Nearby, the Maroon Bells are two maroon peaks reflected in a lake, but in summer the road is open only to shuttle buses during the day, so reserve your seat in advance.

CO-82 follows the Roaring Fork Valley down to Glenwood Springs, with its large hot springs pool. Return to Denver on I-70 through Glenwood Canyon, which can close after rockfall or heavy rain, so check the road status first.