Highlights:
Along the entire route
Independence Pass – Maroon Bells
The Grottos area along Independence Pass
The Maroon Bells reflected in Maroon Lake – Ptarmigan Pass
US 24
Gorgeous scenery!
I-70W Exit 171. Continues to SH-82 south of Leadville.
- From I-70/C470 to Exit 171
- 93 miles 1 hr 40 mins
- GPS
- Ramp/US24
- 39.6096 -106.0507
In General:
- Length: 50 miles
- Driving Time: min. 1 hour
This paved route winds its way to an elevation of 10,424 ft, crossing Tennesee Pass with altitudes rarely falling below 9,000 ft. The rugged scenery includes mountain vistas, abundant summer wildflowers and impressive fall colors.
Ptarmigan Pass
Terrific vistas in all directions.
How to get there:
From I-70W Exit 171/US 24, drive south on US 24 15.2 miles and turn left (E) onto Resolution Mountain Rd.
- From I-70/C470 to Res Mtn Rd
- 108 miles 2 hrs
- GPS
- US24/Res Mtn Rd
- 39.4547 -106.3330
In General:
- Length: 6.5 miles
- Driving Time: min. 30 mins
In good conditions, this spur road from the byway to the top of Ptarmaigan Pass should be passable to most passenger vehicles. North of the pass, it will soon deteriorate and become a true 4wd route requiring low range.
Photo Ops:
The pass sits below the summit of Resolution Mountain and offers terrific vistas in all directions. Fall foliage can be impressive.
Independence Pass
Notable fall color.
How to get there:
I-70W Exit 171. Continue south on US-24 50 miles to SH-82.
- From I-70/C470 to SH 82
- 143 miles 2 hr 40 mins
- GPS
- Parking Area
- 39.0759 -106.2816
In General:
Seasonal Closure
- Length: 43 miles
- Driving Time: min. 1 hour 15 mins
This route winds its way to an elevation of 12,095 ft, crossing Independence Pass and ending in Aspen. The road is narrow and steep with tight switchbacks on either side.
Maroon Bells
Spectacular scenery.
How to get there:
Park for free at Aspen Highlands Village Parking Lot. Purchase tickets and catch the bus tour at Four-Mountain Sports
- From Aspen to Parking Lot
- 2.8 miles 5 mins
- GPS
- Parking Lot Ent
- 39.1830 -106.8555
In General:
Limited accessibility by car. Bus tours run throughout the day for the summer season. Fees apply.
Photo Ops:
The Maroon Bells, reflected in Maroon Lake, is perhaps Colorado’s most often photographed mountain scene. Fall foliage can be special. Abundant summer wildflowers.