Looking for that magical moment when you feel like the mountains are all yours? There’s a sweet time of year on the Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway, before the busier season—when you can experience the beauty of these legendary roads in near solitude. Just pure alpine air and awe-inspiring views.
Where to Go:
Fremont Pass (Hwy 91)
A 24 mile drive from Leadville to Copper Mountain leads to the Arkansas River Headwaters and Climax Molybdenum Mine at the summit. Crossing the Continental Divide reaching an elevation of 11,318 feet, its views of snow capped peaks are not to be missed.
Stops along the drive include:
- Mayflower Gulch – recreational backcountry access
- Clinton Gulch Reservoir – waterside views
- Kokomo Lookout – historic mining town once home to over 10,000 residents
Tennessee Pass (Hwy 24)
A 30 mile drive from Leadville to Minturn follows an abandoned railway past marshlands, rock walls and historic sites. The entrance to Ski Cooper sits atop the Continental Divide at 10,423 feet.
Stops along the drive include:
- 10th Mountain Division Memorial Marker
- Colorado Trail/Continental Divide Trailhead
- Camp Hale National Monument
- Steel Arched Bridge above the Town of Red Cliff
- Gilman Mine Ghost Town
- Town of Minturn
Independence Pass (Hwy 82) – Limited Access
This seasonally open pass has closure gates in place until its projected opening at noon on Thursday, May 22nd (weather permitting) but the 10 mile stretch of road from the Twin Lakes village to the closure gate has a beauty all its own.
Join the locals road biking this quiet stretch of road or extending their winter with plenty of snow remaining for backcountry sports.
Park at the Red Rooster Visitor Center/Forest Service Pullout in Twin Lakes: From here, you can begin your journey up the pass on bike.
Looking for more? The Independence Pass Foundation hosts a Ride for The Pass event Saturday, May 17th starting on the Aspen side of the pass.
Recuperate and Refuel in Twin Lakes
Stick around for a while, The Mount Elbert Lodge and Stay Twin Lakes offer the perfect cabin getaway. Providing easy access to the pass they are the perfect place to rest and replenish.
Don’t worry about finding a snack or hot drink—Tenderfoot Farm, the cozy store in Twin Lakes, is open year-round. Grab a coffee, a sandwich, or gifts for family and friends.
Tenderfoot Farm
Pro Tips
- Always check the CDOT website or call ahead for up-to-date road and weather conditions.
- Pack layers—it might feel like summer in town, but it’s still winter up top.
- Respect trail etiquette and avalanche safety if you’re skiing or hiking higher terrain.
This short window in mid-May is your best shot at experiencing Top of the Rockies Byways in their glory. It’s like having a highway to heaven all to yourself—don’t miss it.
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