Elevation: trip ranges from 9,300 feet to 12,500 feet

Weather: be prepared for inclement weather with a possibility of rain, sleet and snow; hot or cool temperatures.

TO TRAILHEAD: From Buena Vista take US Hwy 24 West (north) toward Leadville for approximately 20 miles to Twin Lakes.  Turn left (west) on to CO 82 (Independence Pass Road).The trailhead can be found 2 miles west of Twin Lakes Village on CO 82. Look for a parking lot off to the left (south). The trail is accessed south across the bridge over Lake Creek. Follow the road to the trail on the left side. Follow signs for the Hope Pass Trail/Colorado Trail/Continental Divide Trail and head south into Little Willis Gulch. The first part of the trail is very steep.