Heads up, leaf-peepers! Highway 82 over Independence Pass is closed.

The 12,095-foot mountain pass will close for rockfall mitigation work on September 30th and October 1st from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. just east of Aspen. The closure points are located between mile markers 59 and 62. The summit and other areas will still be accessible from the east side of the pass. 

According to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), Independence Pass generally opens from Memorial Day until late October or early November.

Highway 82 over Independence Pass runs from Glenwood Springs to Twins Lakes south of Leadville. It’s a popular route utilized by leaf-peepers. Here’s a look at where it’s located on the map. 

CDOT is urging motorists to use alternate routes during single-lane and full closures. 

Editor’s Note: All closures are subject to change. Check CDOT’s Facebook, Twitter (@coloradodot) or cotrip.org for the latest on closures and delays on highways and roads across the state of Colorado.

Fall colors looming over Independence Pass. Photo Credit: tonda (iStock).