# Top of the Rockies to Aspen

> 3-day road trip of about 308 km (191 mi) with 6 stops, from Denver to Glenwood Springs. About 3 h 25 min of driving in total.

Source: https://camping-spirit.com/guides/independence-aspen/

**At a glance:** 3-day road trip of about 308 km (191 mi) with 6 stops, from Denver to Glenwood Springs. About 3 h 25 min of driving in total. Leadville, Independence Pass, the Maroon Bells and the hot springs at Glenwood.

| | |
|---|---|
| Distance | 308 km (191 mi) |
| Driving | 3 h 25 min |
| Suggested days | 3 |
| Stops | 6 |
| Route | Denver → Glenwood Springs |
| States | CO |
| Updated | August 17, 2026 |

## 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.

## Stop-by-stop itinerary

1. **Denver** (CO)
2. **Leadville** (CO)
3. **Independence Pass** (Twin Lakes, CO): A 12,095-foot pass over the Continental Divide, closed in winter. Vehicles over 35 feet are banned.
4. **Aspen** (CO)
5. **Maroon Bells** (Aspen, CO): Two maroon peaks reflected in a lake. In summer the road is shuttle-only during the day.
6. **Glenwood Springs** (CO)

## FAQs

**How long is Top of the Rockies to Aspen?**
3-day road trip of about 308 km (191 mi) with 6 stops, from Denver to Glenwood Springs. About 3 h 25 min of driving in total.

**How many days do you need for Top of the Rockies to Aspen?**
We suggest 3 days: about 3 h 25 min of driving, which leaves time for the stops.

**Where does Top of the Rockies to Aspen start and end?**
It starts in Denver and ends in Glenwood Springs.

**Which states does Top of the Rockies to Aspen pass through?**
Colorado.