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8. Independence Pass
Leaving the ghosts behind in St. Elmo, we head back to Highway 24 for Independence Pass near Leadville. The elevation increases with each switchback turn, leaving behind golden aspens for fir, spruce, and pine trees. The Chalk Mountain range rises above the tree line; its bare slopes of gray rock are popular with off-road vehicle drivers. A long line of golden oaks and cottonwood trees anchor the massive stone growing after loggers removed the pines.
Railroad tracks following the shore of Eagle River
Photo credit: Ann Bush
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