Sunset Hike to Twining Peak

Twining Peak is a ranked 13er located 2 miles north of Independence Pass. The hike involves around 1700 feet of elevation and is mostly off-trail with some class 2 scrambling (class 3 can be had if you look hard enough). Independence Pass is a prominent and popular pass on Highway 82 between Twin lakes and Aspen.

You can also access this peak from the Linkins Lake trailhead (just west of the pass) by climbing several other 13ers via lost mans pass. This route does involve some class 4 ridge scrambling so be aware.

From Independence Pass head north and either a) skirt peak 13,500 (the one most prominent from the pass) and ascend the saddle of twining peak or b) ascend peak 13,500 from Independence pass and follow the ridge to the saddle and up to Twining peak. Either route has roughly the same distance and elevation gain. Climbing peak 13,500 does have a little more total elevation/gain loss.

Once on the summit enjoy the views and the sunset!! To get back to the pass follow either route described above. Skirting peak 13,500 is a little easier but does involve scrambling over some large boulders so care should be taken.

Note-Highway 82 is closed in late Fall and will stay closed until mid-May most years. This adds 8.5 miles to the trip and also traverses many high-risk avalanche paths. Winter hiking is not recommended.