Following a dry winter in Colorado, many residents have been wondering if some of the state’s high-elevation routes that are seasonally closed may reopen early. The Aspen Times has provided an update from the Colorado Department of Transportation related to Independence Pass.

Per their report, it’s unlikely that Independence Pass – known for connecting the Twin Lakes area to Aspen and being a major time-saver for those traveling to Aspen from the south – will be opening earlier than normal. Per CDOT, Independence Pass usually reopens the week prior to Memorial Day weekend. At this time, travelers can expect it to open around that same time.

A key reason the pass probably won’t be opening early, per the Aspen Times report, is that maintenance work will still need to be completed and at this time, some portions of the road still need to be assessed. Snow does still exist along high stretches of the road. If conditions permit maintenance to take place earlier-than-norm, this extra time can be used for more extensive repairs, as well.

It’s also worth noting that while Colorado’s winter has been relatively dry thus far, recent significant snow has shown that winter is far from over. Many peaks in the Aspen area got double-digit snow totals as April hit and given Independence Pass’ peak elevation of 12,095 feet, this area could still be hit with plenty of additional snow as early spring continues.

Read the full report from The Aspen Times here.

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