Independence Pass is located in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. As with many peaks in the area its ascent involves high altitudes. The gradients are not as punishing as some of the European climbs but the thinner air means the Independence Pass ascent should not be underestimated.
The Independence Pass climb starts just outside Aspen at 2423m and winds its way up to the summit at 3687m meaning you will climb for 1263m in the thinner mountain air. The average gradient is 4.2% but couple this with the wind and the altitude and it will feel like it's higher. The section in the middle of the climb is where the maximum gradient can be found at 7.5%. The other sting the Independence Pass has is the distance. At around 30km long you have to sustain your effort for a prolonged period to conquer this mountain.
There is a ghost town at around the 25km mark. This is an abandonded town that was once inhabited by gold prospectors.
Independence Pass can be tackled from both the East and West sides. Independence Pass is used in the USA Pro challenge. As with all climbs in Rocky Mountains area the scenery is nothing short of spectacular wherever you look. The closest airport is Denver while Amtrak go to Denver and picturesque Glenwood Springs.
Country: USA
Mountain range: Colorado Rockkies
Distance: 29km
Elev Gain: 1330m
Avg Grade: 4%
Max Grade: 14.5%
Climb cat: HC
Min Elevation: 2444m
Max Elevation: 3664m
Suggested Airport: Denver International
Suggested Train Station: Glenwood Springs
