Wild rock independence pass. Follow the cairns on a rising traverse west .

Wild rock independence pass. This spectacular route is part of Colorado State Highway 82, serving as a link between the cities of Aspen and Twin Lakes. 8. On the way we stopped by the ghost mining town of Independence for a glimpse into life in this area 100 years ago. Microspikes are helpful here, as it’s kitty litter in some areas. Follow the cairns on a rising traverse west From the prairies of western Kansas to some of the highest mountain peaks along the Continental Divide in Colorado, the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands is home to a variety of ecosystems rich in history, geology, scenery, wildlife habitat and more. Professionally certified and trained mountain guides will take you on a fun and Oct 8, 2018 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Whichever pass has the highest climb, Independence Pass offers one of the Independence Pass Overview Independence Pass is a stunning mountain pass situated in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. The Oregon Trail was a 2,170-mile (3,490 km) [1] east–west, large-wheeled wagon route and emigrant trail in North America that connected the Missouri River to valleys in Oregon Territory. Then hike about 200 feet uphill, and look for some cairns and a large, downed tree. Oct 23, 2006 · Press release out today, our beloved Independence Pass is closed for the season. The Pass is the perfect summer rock climbing destination, with habitually warm and dry days, coupled with striking fall foliage, make for some of the season’s most colorful climbing. July 27, Wild Rock area Star gentian, Swertia perennis Green-flowered wintergreen, Pyrola chlorantha Spreading dogbane, Apocynum androsaemifolium Blunt-leaved orchid, Platanthera obtusata July 25, roadside (full length of Pass, west-side) Lodgepole lupine, Lupinus parviflorus (white morph) Fringed gentian, Gentianopsis thermalis Jun 28, 2006 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Enjoy! Jun 5, 2025 · Press Release: Crews with the Colorado Department of Transportation have reopened Independence Pass on Colorado Highway 82 for the season. Explore climbs, detailed trail mapping, offline GPS, topo lines, and thousands of beta videos on KAYA. The approach is 5-10 minutes and there is a lot of nice granite. Independence Pass is among the most scenic drives with spectacular mountain views and The stretch of 150 trail miles from Casper to South Pass is perhaps the best-preserved section of the original route, and includes important landmark features such as Independence Rock, Devil's Gate, Split Rock, Emigrant Gap, Prospect Hill, Rocky Ridge, and South Pass. 6/5 rating , 3 beta videos - - View more climbs and beta videos for Independence Pass on KAYA. Dec 21, 2024 · Explore the breathtaking beauty of Independence Pass, one of Colorado’s most scenic mountain routes, in this 4K drone video. Independence Rock is a large granite rock, approximately 130 feet (40 m) high, 1,900 feet (580 m) long, and 850 feet (260 m) wide, which is in southwestern Natrona County, Wyoming along Wyoming Highway 220. Independence Pass is one of Colorado's most iconic mountain passes, and our guide covers everything you need to know to plan your visit. Jun 27, 2006 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Independence Pass Colorado Camping information. Plan your visit and explore the diverse landscapes, national parks, and cultural treasures managed by the National Park Service. The pass is a gateway to a world of natural beauty and adventure, connecting Aspen with May 23, 2025 · With loose rock and weather safety closures being a common occurrence on Independence Pass, CDOT recommends checking road conditions using its online COtrip tool before hitting the road. May 4, 2025 · Discover the hidden gems and breathtaking views of Colorado's Independence Pass. May 24, 2015 · They believed that the rock marked the halfway point between the Missouri River and the mouth of the Columbia River at the Pacific Ocean and that, if they reached the rock before July 4, they’d pass the Rocky Mountains before the dreaded snowfall began. The approach is demanding and will give you something more than a warm-up. Independence Pass, a stunning 32-mile mountain road in central Colorado, sits right on the Continental Divide and gives visitors incredible views of the nearby summits. Order yours online today, free shipping on all card orders. But the ride up to the top is well worth the drive when it is open. The Oregon Trail was laid by fur It's such a thrill driving along it like a daredevil. You could do this drive as its own thing, or make a trip out of it, stopping at different spots along the way to go for a hike, check out waterfalls, take in the view, and more. This range is often said to contain the highest paved approach of any Colorado pass, the 4600 feet climb from Aspen to Independence Pass. We followed the trail up through a high valley above tree line to Independence Lake where Tommy and I turned northwest to climb the face of the mountain (an additional 500 feet straight up - good rock/good footing). Our Ranch is conveniently located near Austin, Houston, Dallas, west texas, south texas, northern texas, central texas, and San Antonio, Texas at affordable prices. Learn more about the attraction's history, setting and significance before you visit. The Pass – Independence Pass – offers the finest high-country cragging in the Colorado Rockies. Six sites are available for public use. Recreation Independence Pass is comprised of three federally-designated Wilderness areas: The Hunter-Fryingpan, Collegiate Peaks, and Mount Massive Wilderness areas. Cross the street, head North/uphill, and make your way through some boggy patches until you see Wild Rock. PURCHASE ONLINE The Golf Getaway Pass The Golf Getaway Pass Play two courses for one great price! Both May 26, 2025 · The Colorado Department of Transportation announced May 22 that Independence Pass, connecting Lake and Pitkin Counties, had officially opened for the 2025 season. Explore what the landscape offers with recreation opportunities from casual strolls along a shimmering Dec 15, 2001 · Unless you're a movie star, ski bum, or coke addict, the best thing going in the Aspen area is definitely Independence Pass. Climb grey edges to a very difficult V10ish slap onto the slab above. Independence Ranch offers world-class hog hunting trips, wild pig hunting, night hog hunting, deer hunting, and bow hunting . Jan 7, 2002 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Jul 2, 2008 · Description This has a difficult, direct start to the seldom climbed, yet quite good, . Oct 8, 2018 · Park as for "Wild Rock" in the large pullout on the south side of CO Hwy 82, 10. Independence Pass serves as the eastern gateway to the Roaring Fork Valley, as well as a historic link between the Western Slope and communities on the The pass can transfer between vehicles, allowing the Independence Pass holder and others in the same vehicle to enter the park. From the harsh, windblown tundra at the summit of the Pass, to the lush oxbow meadows of the North Apr 20, 2024 · The Continental Divide is a series of ridges that split the rivers flowing east into the Atlantic Ocean or the Gulf of Mexico from the rivers flowing west into the Pacific Ocean. Just a short drive from Aspen, climb up the granite crags of Independence Pass and rappel down. The climbs are more akin to roped bouldering, but nevertheless are definitely worth a look, as they feature bottom-to-top climbing and powerful moves. Jul 5, 2015 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Aug 18, 2021 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. All Colorado state parks require an entrance pass for motor vehicles. Jul 7, 2023 · Thanks to abundant moisture, wildflowers are starting to show across Colorado with hopes high for “super blooms” later this month as snow melts from the high country. Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps. Rock Dam Campground accepts reservations. Independence Park Pass holders 64 years of age or older will receive a $3 camping discount per night Sunday through Thursday. Even the most jaded Front Range boulderer would have to admit that it's pretty much The Experience Experience the fun and ease of rock climbing. A no-hands rest lets you get it all back before entering the . Independence Pass is one of many wild places in Aspen that provides visitors and locals with access to the beauty and wonder of our natural surroundings. Travel southwest from Casper to Independence Rock State Historic Site, so named because Oregon Trail travelers needed to be there before July 4 – the USA’s Independence Day – to ensure they could complete their journey before winter set in. Nov 4, 2024 · What is Independence Rock? Independence Rock is a massive granite boulder rising about 136 feet high and stretching nearly 1,900 feet in length. When its summer and all the climbing areas are hot then think Independence Pass Colorado. The trail first met the Sweetwater River here at Independence Rock and would follow that river all the way to South Pass. The 136-foot tall stone rises up out of the otherwise flat Wyoming terrain Apr 30, 2025 · Explore Independence Pass: best time to visit, tickets, drive time, camping, things to do, and nearby spots in Colorado’s scenic mountain pass. The sharp tight turns along towering cliffs and through thick forests are wild. It was the social media of the time and remains significant today because those travelers saw fit to leave their marks on Wyoming for posterity. The eastern part of the Oregon Trail crossed what is now the states of Kansas, Nebraska, and Wyoming. It comes complete with its own warm-up block and wild raspberry bushes, it's two minutes from the road and across the street from a swimming hole. Jun 12, 2013 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Its name is said to come from a group of fur trappers who arrived on July 4 Jun 29, 2008 · Independence Pass & Ghost Town After our Maroon Bells hike and a quick drive-through of Aspen we decided to make our way up CO-82 and above treeline to the 12,095' summit of Independence Pass. Hike the Grottos Trail, experience Independence Ghost Town, and take in the magnificent views. When the route is closed for the winter, vehicles need to travel through Glenwood Springs in order to get to Aspen from the east (including from Denver). The Grottos Trail off of Independence Pass near Aspen, Colorado, has geological wonders including unusual boulders, an ice cave and cascading waterfall. The is a paved hiking trail (the Independence Pass Scenic Trail) which leads to a sightseeing platform where far-reaching the stunning views of the Continental Divide! Spectacular sight! Enjoy! Read more Visited October 2024 Traveled solo Written December 2, 2024 The organization has been implementing restorative work on Independence Pass for more than 30 years. The mission of the Independence Pass Foundation is to restore and protect the ecological, historical, and Introduction Independence Pass, part of Colorado’s scenic byway system, is a high mountain pass within the Rocky Mountains that offers breathtaking views, thrilling outdoor activities, and a rich history. There are many campgrounds and the scenery is hard to beat too. When Father De Smet visited in 1841, so many names had already been carved, painted or smeared on the landmark in buffalo grease and gunpowder that he named it the “Great Register of the Desert. A handful of gorgeous roads lead to Independence Pass, such as the high-plateau plains of Jefferson and Grant along Highway 285, driving alongside the Collegiate Peaks near Salida and Buena Vista, and the switchback-turns on Highway 24 from Minturn. 5,936 likes · 242 talking about this · 1,486 were here. 12c's crux above. The campground is located 4 miles northwest of Wild Rock County Park. There are many interesting hiking trails on the way to the summit. Difficult Campground, Weller Campground, Lincoln Creek Camping, Parry Peak Campground and Twin Peaks. This scenic dirt road, approximately 11 miles southeast of Aspen, winds through the White River National Forest alongside the picturesque Lincoln Creek. Aspen Climbing Guides publisher of Independence Pass Rock Climbing, Arkansas Valley Rock Climbing including Buena Vista, Camp Hale Rock Climbing. May 31, 2023 · One of the landmarks along the Oregon Trail is Independence Rock in Wyoming. Independence Pass Independence Pass provides a crucial route over the Continental Divide on the eastern side of Aspen. In addition to being a scenic byway, Independence Pass, just east of Aspen, is a favorite recreation location during the summer months. The rock is considered the halfway point for many travelers heading west. Aug 19, 2021 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Apr 20, 2023 · From picturesque overlooks to charming towns, explore the unique attractions and outdoor activities of the Independence Pass scenic drive. A trip over the pass is a visual feast with vistas of wildflowers, thick forests and ample wildlife. Countless routes for trad, sport and bouldering – and stellar mountain views – make Independence Pass home to some of the best rock climbing in the state. The boulder receives tree shade throughout the day, and both routes' anchors are accessible This peak is well named, for it has high and wild rock pinnacles on its north and south ridges and on the beautiful east ridge which one can see from Cathedral Lake. Jul 3, 2024 · Here in Colorado, summer can mean many things, but to rock climbers, it means Independence Pass climbing is finally on! At elevations from 9,000 to almost 13,000 feet, “The Pass” offers some of the state’s most scenic, accessible, and uncrowded alpine rock climbing. Dec 16, 2023 · Wyoming is home to three historic sites where thousands of settlers on their way West in the mid-1800s stopped to scratch their names in rock walls. The summit of the Continental Divide is 12,095 feet above sea level. On the west side, there are four // @jonglassberg on the FA of “Wild Hair” (v10/11) in the Ice Caves, Independence Pass // 🎥 by @jessglassberg@mountainhardwear#bouldering #climbing #rock Independence Pass is still open, so I decided to try and get in a few peaks before it closes. Dec 28, 2012 · Independence Rock was a well-known landmark among early American settlers who had little else by which to find their way. Most people climb Cathedral Peak in June or July when snow still resides in one of the east facing gullies which are climbed to reach the standard south ridge. . Independence Pass is a stunning, meandering stretch of wilderness. Independence Pass is an often overlooked but ultra-worthy, granite area, East of town off the super-steep CO Highway 82. The is a paved hiking trail (the Independence Pass Scenic Trail) which leads to a sightseeing platform where far-reaching the stunning views of the Continental Divide! Spectacular sight! Enjoy! This hike begins just west of Independence Pass at the trailhead to Linkins Lake and Independence Lake. 12c on Wild Rock's northeast arete. The rock was unofficially named "Independence Independence Pass, part of Colorado State Highway 82, passes over the Continental Divide between Leadville and Aspen, Colorado with a summit of 12,095 ft. The Pass is also historic, offering some of Colorado's earlier forays onto steep (5. It is a contestant for the hardest bit of roped climbing on the Pass, although the route climbs more like two boulder Lincoln Gulch Campground is situated in a lodge pole pine forest close to scenic highway 82. But is Indy really closed? The gate has a lock on it, but… If you know the right people you can get a key. With hairpin turns, rustic ghost towns, and spectacular vistas, it is well worth visiting during your next Sawatch Range trip. The largest area is Monitor Rock. The Independence Pass, Colorado! Learn about its scenic drives, hiking trails, history, and everything you need to plan your perfect trip. The area includes crags between Aspen & Twin Lakes. Known as one of the “reg-isters of the desert,” it bears witness to the travelers who passed by Oct 26, 2021 · The views of Grizzly Peak were stunning! I turned and retraced my steps back to the Mountain Boy/Igloo saddle Here’s the route I took back to Igloo, which is the same route I took down. Feb 24, 2023 · One day exploring Independence Pass. Independence Pass. ” The rock may have been the best-known spot on the emigrant trails, and it remains an Explore the most popular trails in my list Independence Pass hikes with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. This area is never crowded and most approaches are short. It is about 32 miles long and takes anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour-and-a-half with stops along the way. Continue to the North face of Wild Rock. Independece Pass is the summit of the Top of the Rockies National Scenic & Historic Byway and is located between Twin Lakes Village and Aspen. In addition, the Roaring Fork River and its tributaries support riparian ecosystems along their banks. The goods are up there. Independence Pass Just a short drive from the ski town of Aspen, Independence Pass is not only a scenic byway but also a rock-climbing mecca. The elements had rendered the old sign unreadable, and, perhaps more importantly, it had never been “readable” by blind or low vision people, as it did not include Braille script (unlike The barn center provides space for: Therapeutic retreats Reunions and anniversaries Indoor picnics Corporate events Birthday parties and more! Sep 3, 2005 · This is an archetypal, ship's prow arete problem on flawless granite with a perfect, flat landing, tucked into a shady grotto at the base of the whirlpool wall. Terrific backcountry skiing when it snows, incredible rock climbing and hiking if we get more Indian summer. Unveil its secrets and plan your ultimate adventure. Jun 27, 2006 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. An easy and popular hike is the Grotto Trail which has huge rock formations and caves. 9 ascents logged, 4. Dating back to the mid-19th century, this rock was an essential landmark for emigrants following the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails across the Great Plains. This portion of highway is also incorporated into the Top of the Rockies Scenic and Historic Byway. We asked a few experts Jul 1, 2021 · Discover Independence Rock, located 50 miles outside of Casper, WY. The Independence Pass holder must be present for the pass to be valid. Feb 18, 2025 · At 12,095 feet, Independence Pass is one of the highest paved mountain passes in the United States. West of Independence Pass, highway 82 descends at an 6% grade across steep, barren slopes of rock and bare earth, through an area prone to landslides, and soon reaches the very upper end of Roaring Fork River, which is then followed through thick woodland for 20 miles, all the way to the ski resort town of Aspen. Description Located in the trees below Wild Rock, and adjacent to the James Brown Bouldering area, the Big Wild Boulder hosts two excellent short routes. There are several campgrounds on the east side of the Pass, including Parry Peak, Twin Peaks, and Twin Lakes-area campgrounds, which usually open to the public around Memorial Day weekend. 8 miles east of City Market in Aspen. Family Season Pass$50 Nearby Rock Dam Campground provides shower facilities, beach, convenience store, sanitary dump station, potable water, electric and water hookups. Sitting at an elevation of 12,095 feet, it is among the highest paved passes in the country. The western half crossed the current states of Idaho and Oregon. This is my third trip to Monitor. To be the crowds, do what my friend Lisa and I did. If you're looking for Colorado's natural beauty, you can find it here. A high mountain pass at elevation 12,095 ft on the Continental Divide, midway between Aspen and Twin Lakes. Independence Pass with map, topos, photos and more. 7) rock, a This historic rock became known as Independence Rock because emigrants taking wagon trains from the Missouri River,usually leaving by early spring, had to reach this important rock landmark along the Oregon Trail, California Trail and Mormon Trail before July 4th (Independence Day) if they were to make it over the Rocky Mountains before winter. This Colorado climbing destination boasts granite cliffs and boulders scattered among alpine meadows and dense pine forests. Here are a few alternative points of view: the Trail Ridge Road passes, Grand Mesa summit (u). Wild Hair v11, Independence Pass. Moved PermanentlyThe document has moved here. Climbing the rock was a popular diversion (it still is!) and thousands of trail travelers left their names carved into the granite. Jul 24, 2017 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. When riding in the Wild Rock area a trail pass must be purchased. Lincoln Creek Road Lincoln Creek Road, located along the breathtaking Independence Pass in Colorado, offers a unique camping experience for those seeking a more rustic and dispersed environment. I drove to the Independence Lake Trailhead the morning of the hike, instead of the night before: every time I drive by this trailhead at night I see porcupines (plural) underneath vehicles parked there. Here are some close-up pictures of the route back up to Igloo And back up those scree/rock gullies And up that quick chimney to the peak I Independence Pass, part of Colorado State Highway 82, passes over the Continental Divide between Leadville and Aspen, Colorado. It was traditional to celebrate Independence Day here, regardless of the date. Jul 16, 2012 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Certain local hunting outfitters can unlock the gate at will and drive Current ProjectsIn the winter of 2023/24, IPF redesigned and fabricated new welcome signs at the Braille Trail, the brainchild of IPF founder Bob Lewis and the first of its kind in the world built in 1967. Sep 22, 2023 · Independence Pass is one of the best-known high mountain roads in Colorado, and for good reason. Get to the trailhead before 7 … This has got to be one of the prettiest scenic drives in the country, let alone the state of Colorado. Jul 29, 2020 · This is a short hike with a huge wow factor. Sep 14, 2001 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. The Sawatch Range south of Leadville appears like a massive bulk of gigantic proportions. Lost Man Campground is situated directly across Independence Pass road from Lost Man Trailhead 14 miles east of Aspen Colorado on Highway 82. Jul 17, 2024 · ASPEN • In the forest along Independence Pass, there’s a place of bizarre, swirling rock and roaring water that captures the imagination of drivers who stop by. Even though climbing has been documented here since the 1950s, this is the area’s first full-color guidebook. Here is everything you need to know about Nov 8, 2014 · People have been leaving carvings and images on Independence Rock in central Wyoming since prehistoric times. The Independence Pass corridor is notable for passing through three major life zones—the montane, subalpine, and alpine, each of which has specific characteristics determined by elevation. See the sun rise and set over 12,095-foot Independence Pass. The scenery in this area is remarkable, with The Advance Purchase Pass The Advance Purchase Pass Save on your 2020 rounds of golf at Wild Rock! The Advance Purchase pass is $59+tax and is valid for 18 holes with GPS cart, Sunday through Thursday, during the 2020 golf season. Jul 1, 2006 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. State Highway 82 traverses the pass for 32 miles. Independence Pass Foundation, Aspen. Grottos Trail is very popular. Register Cliff in Platte County, Independence Rock in Natrona County and Names Hill in Lincoln County Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Jul 30, 2025 · Discover America's stories. The views are spectacular and it is amazing to see the colorful wild flowers poking through the high tundra. Nestled in the heart of the Rock Jun 26, 2019 · The sharp tight turns along towering cliffs and through thick forests are wild. Oct 8, 2018 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. It stands at an elevation of 12,095 feet, making it one of the highest paved passes in North America. htftxcx phd eirav vnc ztrzb mvi agqf bzaq lukz fxa