CENTRAL COLORADO - After learning about the Caribou Village Shopping Center fire in Nederland, my heart broke. Every time I think about the animals at the Wild Bear Center, I cry. I can’t imagine what they must have been feeling before they perished.

Several stands of aspen trees add to the spectacular views that surround my cabin, so I step outside to talk to the forest, pleading for help for everyone affected by this tragedy. For a moment, I get distracted by nature. It’s incredible to watch the cycle of just one aspen tree, but to see hundreds go through varying stages of change all at once leaves me speechless.

One of my favorite autumn drives is Independence Pass. I’ve driven through the pass many times, and it never ceases to amaze me. It’s as if every tree is the first I’ve seen. The drive always feels like I’m driving through a painting. On this particular day, the further I drove on the pass, the more I felt myself let go.

I let go of worry or thought. I could think of nothing other than the beauty of autumn. As part of Colorado State Highway 82, and with a summit of 12,095 feet, Independence Pass crosses over the Continental Divide between Leadville and Aspen.

For 32 miles, travelers marvel at the breathtaking views seen on one of Colorado’s most scenic drives. Some folks claim they can drive the pass in 45 minutes. I stopped several times, took hundreds of photos, and hiked. It took me three hours.

Above alpine valleys, the road winds through groves of aspen. The Roaring Fork River rushes through large parts of the pass, adding to nature’s melody. Many lookouts offer opportunities to spend time with the river. I highly recommend it.

Aside from hiking, outdoor enthusiasts can bike or explore the Independence Ghost Town, 16 miles east of Aspen. The only downfall is that the pass closes for the winter and doesn’t open until the snow melts.

Though the road’s twists are steep and narrow, with only a few guardrails, it’s considered safe, but not for commercial or recreational vehicles 35 feet or longer. In late spring, before the road opens to vehicles, cyclists can enjoy the pass without cars, making it a little safer to ride.

It used to make me sad to finish my drive across Independence Pass. Then, it was the end of autumn that made me sad. Today, nothing compares to the sadness I feel for Nederland.

Autumn teaches us the beauty of letting go, and I’d give anything to be back on Independence Pass at this moment, letting go. But how does one let go of the agony felt for those in distress? And how do those let go of life-changing tragedy? My heart goes out to the people of Nederland.

To reach Independence Pass, take CO 82 between Twin Lakes and Aspen, or get to Leadville and follow the signs to Independence Pass/Aspen. To learn more, visit aspenchamber.org/blog/everything-you-need-know-about-independence-pass.