Cottonwood Lakes and Army Pass Trail

Cottonwood Lakes and Army Pass Trail is a scenic route within the high alpine environment of the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountain range. A longer - and therefore more challenging route - the trail is ideal for more experienced hikers and those seeking a challenge. Boasting great views of the surrounding Inyo National Forest landscape, Cottonwood Lakes and Army Pass Trail will not leave you disappointed.
Quick Navigation
Join our newsletter
Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers
Route Description for Cottonwood Lakes and Army Pass Trail
As Cottonwood Lakes and Army Pass Trail is within the high alpine environment of the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountain range, it is important that you prepare yourself for the mountainous conditions. The weather can change rapidly along the route's duration, so we recommend bringing extra clothing so you can layer up as needed. Likewise, due to the route's high elevation, it is important that you monitor yourself and your group members for the effects of altitude sickness.
With your vehicle parked, locate the trailhead and follow Cottonwood Lakes Trail as it makes its way northwest. The terrain will gradually incline as you reach a junction within the trail. At the junction, continue on along Cottonwood Lakes Trail by taking the eastern pathway. From here, carry on along Cottonwood Lakes Trail as it heads west adjacent to Cottonwood Creek.
The Cottonwood Lakes and Army Pass Trail will then cross Cottonwood Creek to its northern side, and begin to veer west. Picking up elevation as it goes, the route will diverge from Cottonwood Creek before arriving at several junction points within the trail. At each junction, continue on along Cottonwood Lakes Trail as it bypasses several small lakes and delivers you to the Cottonwood Lakes cluster. Once you've arrived, take some time to enjoy the scenery! When you're ready to return to the trailhead, simply backtrack your steps.
Getting to the Cottonwood Lakes and Army Pass Trail Trailhead
The trailhead for Cottonwood Lakes and Army Pass Trail is located at Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground.
Route Information
Cottonwood Lakes and Army Pass Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherCottonwood Lakes and Army Pass Trail Reviews
Add a comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.
Nearby Trails
- White Chief Canyon Trail
- Crystal Lake via Sawtooth Pass Trail
- Franklin Lakes Trail
- First Mosquito Lake Trail
- Eagle and Mosquito Lakes Hike
- Monarch Lakes Trail
- Cottonwood Lakes Trail
- Lone Pine Campground to Whitney Portal Trail
- Cirque Lake via Cottonwood Lakes Trail
- Jordan Hot Springs via Casa Vieja Trail
- Mount Whitney Portal to Lone Pine Lake Trail
- Mount Whitney Trail