Independence Pass (Top of the Rockies)
Ascends to 12,095 feet along the Continental Divide, standing as the highest paved mountain pass over the Rockies. Features extreme high-altitude alpine terrain with single-lane squeeze points, overhanging granite roofs, tight rock-lined hairpins, and steep unguarded drop-offs above the tree line. Open only seasonally from late May through October.
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The undisputed epicenter of motorcycle culture in the eastern United States, sitting at Mile 0 of the Tail of the Dragon (US-129). An electric, adrenaline-fueled carnival of sportbikes, adventure tourers, and interstate cruisers. Smells of warm tire rubber, two-stroke exhaust, and hickory smoke.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many curves and miles is Independence Pass (Top of the Rockies)? ▼
Independence Pass (Top of the Rockies) spans 38 miles and packs approximately 180 curves (4.7 curves per mile) with an elevation delta of 7,908 ft - 12,095 ft (Continental Divide) and technical rating 9/10.
Where are the start and end coordinates? ▼
The route starts at Twin Lakes, CO (Latitude 39.0825, Longitude -106.3797) and finishes at Aspen, CO (Latitude 39.1911, Longitude -106.8175).
How can I download the GPX file for GPS navigation? ▼
Click the "Download Free GPX" button on this guide. The standard XML file is 100% free and ready to load into Garmin zūmo, BMW Motorrad Connected, Rever, Scenic, or Google Maps.