Cottonwood Lakes and Army Pass Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
5-7h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
20.8 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
462 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

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.

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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

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