Roads thru Colorado
Traveling in a 40ft coach and towing. We will be heading from Steamboat Springs south to Aspen then east to Denver through Salida. Looks like a fairly common route logistically. Can you tell me what ...
Forum Discussion
padredw wrote:One thing you don't want to do is take Hwy 82 southeast out of Aspen. You wouldn't like Independence Pass.
In all the fine suggestions, DO NOT overlook this one. You CAN NOT tow your coach over Independence Pass, so you cannot go directly from Aspen to US 24: Buena Vista, Salida.
THIS ^^^^^ Heed this advice!!!
From the CDOT website:
Note: Oversized and overweight vehicles are strictly prohibited from using the Pass at any time due to narrow and winding roads and steep inclines. Absolutely no vehicles over 35 feet in length (this includes a vehicle and trailer that, together, exceed 35 feet) may use the Pass at any time. These pass restrictions lie between MP 42 (Aspen side) and MP 84.2 (Leadville/Twin Lakes side, about one mile west of the junction with US 24).
There was a news blurb last fall on the Denver local news about the Pitkin County Commissioners passing a law that prohibits vehicles over 35 feet in length AND assessing a fine up to $1600 for violation. This is enforced by the Pitkin County Sheriff's Department, and presumably the Colorado State Patrol.
What's the alternative? Taking CO 82 back north to I-70, EB to US 24 and then south on US 24 over Tennessee Pass and on to Leadville, Buena Vista and Salida. It's a very beautiful drive. Yes, there's other alternatives, but this drive would probably be the easiest for your coach/toad combo.
