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Independence Pass to Aspen: Seasonal Closure, Size Limits and the Winter Route
Independence Pass carries Highway 82 over the Continental Divide at 12,095 feet between Twin Lakes and Aspen. In summer it is the scenic shortcut from the Front Range. It closes for the winter season, typically from early November until late May, and vehicles longer than 35 feet are not allowed on it at any time.
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Summer vs. Winter Routes From Denver
- Summer (pass open): I-70 west, then US-24 and Highway 82 over Independence Pass, often the shortest way by miles
- Winter (pass closed): I-70 west through Vail Pass and Glenwood Canyon to Glenwood Springs, then Highway 82 up valley through Carbondale and Basalt to Aspen
- Large vehicles all year: party buses, motor coaches and other vehicles over 35 feet must use the Glenwood Springs route
What This Means for Groups
Because buses and coaches cannot cross the pass, group trips to Aspen are planned around the Glenwood Springs route, which is longer but open year-round and maintained for winter travel. Build in extra time for I-70 traffic on ski weekends, weather on Vail Pass and construction in Glenwood Canyon.
Tips for Travelers
- Check CDOT road conditions before leaving; spring and fall dates can change with snow
- The pass road is narrow with tight switchbacks and steep drop-offs near the summit
- Cell service is limited on the pass, so plan stops in advance
- If you would rather not drive mountain roads, a chauffeur can take the right route for your vehicle and the season
Quick Answers
When does Independence Pass close?
It closes for the winter season, usually in early November, and typically reopens around late May. Exact dates depend on snow, so check CDOT.
Can a party bus go over Independence Pass?
No. Vehicles over 35 feet are prohibited on the pass, so party buses and coaches use I-70 and Glenwood Springs.
What is the best winter route from Denver to Aspen?
I-70 west to Glenwood Springs, then Highway 82 to Aspen. It is the only through route when the pass is closed.
Road, airport and transit rules change. Check CDOT, the airline and RFTA for current conditions before you travel; this guide is general planning help, last updated October 2026.
Related
- All Aspen transportation guides
- Denver Airport to Aspen and Snowmass transportation
- Aspen party bus and Sprinter rental
- Our Aspen limo fleet
- Rates & Pricing
- Rates and pricing
Our Stretch Limos: Cadillac Escalade, Mercedes GLS & Lincoln MKT
Cadillac Escalade Stretch Limo
The white Escalade stretch: LED ceiling, leather wraparound seating, bar area and premium sound. The favorite for weddings, prom and quinceañeras.
Mercedes GLS Stretch Limo
A white Mercedes-Benz GLS stretch with a modern lit interior for weddings, anniversaries and VIP nights out.
Lincoln MKT Stretch Limo
A sleek black Lincoln MKT stretch limo for smaller groups, date nights and corporate dinners.
Choose Your Ride
Stretch Limousine
White and black Escalade, Infiniti QX, Mercedes GLS and Lincoln stretch limos with leather seats, bar area and mood lighting.
Sprinter Limo Van
Stand-up headroom, limo seating and LED ceilings. Perfect for tours, concerts and nights out.
Luxury SUV
Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator and Chevy Suburban for airport and VIP rides.
Executive Sedan
Quiet, discreet black car service for business travel and date nights.
JET / CEO Sprinter
First-class captain chairs and work space for executives and VIP groups.
Party Bus
LED lights, premium sound and room to dance. The party starts the moment you step on.
Mini Bus & Shuttle
Executive Sprinter shuttles and mini buses for wedding guests, teams and airport groups.
Motor Coach
Reclining seats and luggage bays for big groups, teams, conventions and long trips.
See the full Pitkin County Limo fleet with photos →
Why Aspen Books Pitkin County Limo
- Local chauffeurs who know Aspen, Snowmass Village, Woody Creek, Old Snowmass, Redstone, Basalt and all of Pitkin County.
- Clean, late-model limos, Sprinters, party buses, SUVs and motor coaches, inspected before every trip.
- Open 24/7 for calls, texts and last-minute bookings.
- Simple pricing: 4-hour minimum (6 hours for prom, homecoming and high-season weekends), no hidden fees.
- Licensed and insured for your peace of mind.
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Is there a minimum rental time?
Most bookings have a 4-hour minimum, including one-way trips. In high season, prom, homecoming and Friday to Sunday bookings have a 6-hour minimum.
How much does a limo cost in Aspen?
It depends on the vehicle, the date and how many hours you need. Call (970) 818-2489, text (970) 672-0787 or email reservations@phatlimo.com for a free custom estimate.
All Pitkin County Limo Services
Also Serving the Roaring Fork Valley and the Vail Valley
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