The Independence Pass Loop is located in Western Colorado.  Starting in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, this route follows the Roaring Fork River through the valley, past Aspen, before starting the climb up into the mountains.  It’s a long, steady climb up the valley and the curves become tighter as the elevation increases and the wooded scenery gives way to rocky slopes and outcroppings.
 
Just past the hairpin turn at Lost Man Reservoir is the Independence Ghost Town, and with one more big sweeping turn the road passes above the tree line and over Independence Pass.  After Independence Pass, the road drops quickly into the next valley through a series of switchbacks and weaves back and forth as it follows Lake Creek for several miles.
 
After passing through the town of Twin Lakes, this route turns North and follows the Arkansas River to the town of Leadville.  Leaving Leadville, riders cross the open fields and climb to Tennessee Pass.  Riders will go over the pass while the train tracks go through the mountain.  After crossing the pass, the route follows the train tracks down the long valley past Camp Hale before climbing the next valley toward Red Cliff.
 
From Red Cliff the road hugs the hillside before finally dropping back into the valley and into the town of Avon.  Near Avon, this route jumps onto I-70 and follows it to Glenwood Springs.  The road to back to Glenwood Springs follows the Colorado River, so the path is constantly weaving to follow the river.  Motorcycle Rides, Colorado, Glenwood Springs, Gypsum, Eagle, Wolcott, Edwards, Minturn, Red Cliff, Twin Lakese, Granite, Aspen, Woody Creek, Snowmass, Basalt, Carbondale
 
Location:   
Approximate Mileage:  190 miles
Estimated Riding Time:  4.75 Hours 
Surface:  Paved
 
Attractions:
Independence Pass
Aspen - Independence Ghost TownEs
Buena Vista - Crystal Lake Overlook
Tennessee Pass
Leadville - Camp Hale Historical Monument
Red Cliff - Red Cliff Bridge