Last year November was quite cold with a good bit of snow. If I remember right it hit 0 degrees F in metro Denver. Certainly too late for fall colors in the mountains. Who knows what this year brings.

Independence Pass is actually between Leadville and Aspen. Trail Ridge Road goes over/through Rocky Mountain National Park. Both are most likely to be closed, along with the road to the top of Mount Evans. Loveland Pass (US-6 between Loveland Ski Area and Keystone) and Berthoud Pass (US-40 between Empire and Winter Park) will both be open unless there is an active severe storm. This will be well reported on local news. Both of these are enough to give you a good taste of the mountains and are within the drive distance you talk about. Winter Park, Breckenridge, or Vail if you have the extra time would all be worthwhile destinations to sight see. It's most likely to be too early for worthwhile skiing, but if the early snow is heavy I'd encourage you to go up and take a lesson if you've never skied before. Winter Park has a great program.

As Doc Savage suggests, chains are not really used by passenger cars around here. I would encourage you to look for a newer rental car with OEM tires with decent tread. As agencies have been keeping cars longer these days, sometimes you can get one with thin tread or low-end replacements that are not good for snow. If you are antsy, just wait it out for a nicer day as Doc Savage suggests.

I hope you have a pleasant stay.