Independence
State: Colorado
County: Pitkin County
Founded: 1879
Peak Population: 1,000-1,500
Independence was named for its discovery date: July 4, 1879. At peak, 1,500 people lived at 10,900 feet with 40 businesses. When the brutal 1899 winter cut off supplies, residents dismantled their houses to build skis and escaped to Aspen. Now preserved by Aspen Historical Society.
Quick Facts
- Named for July 4th, 1879 discovery date
- Residents built skis from their own houses to escape the 1899 winter
- First successful mining camp in Roaring Fork Valley
- At 10,900 feet elevation on scenic Independence Pass
Location
Address: Highway 82, Pitkin County, Colorado
Coordinates: 39.0783, -106.5864