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California
5.9 mi
Distance
1,026 ft
Gain
No conditions check on file for this trail yet — always verify current conditions before you go.
Why you'll love it
Cottonwood Lakes
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No permit or access details on file for this trail — check with the local land manager before you go.
Cottonwood Lakes offers a scenic moderate hike through the Eastern Sierra, gaining over 1,000 feet while traversing approximately 6 miles of varied terrain. This trail showcases the region's alpine character with access to pristine mountain lakes nestled in a glacially-carved basin. The route combines meadow walking with steady climbing, rewarding hikers with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and crystal-clear alpine waters.
New Army Pass
~1 min drive
Steep Sierra alpine pass with sustained elevation gain and high-country views.
Muir Lake
~2 min drive
Easy 1.2-mile alpine lake hike with gentle elevation gain.
South Fork Cottonwood Creek
~3 min drive
Easy creek-side walk with minimal elevation gain in Cottonwood Creek drainage.
Mulkey Pass
~7 min drive
Moderate 7-mile hike to a scenic mountain pass with steady climbing.
Cirque Lake
~3 min drive
Easy 1.54-mile alpine lake hike with 226 ft elevation gain.
Mulkey Mdw.-Templeton Meadow
~14 min drive
Gentle alpine meadow trail connecting two scenic high-country meadows.
Trail Pass
~7 min drive
Steady 10-mile alpine hike with 472 ft elevation gain near Trail Pass.
Cottonwood Pass Stock
~4 min drive
Ultra-short, easy stock trail near Cottonwood Pass.
Kern Peak
~18 min drive
Steep alpine climb to Kern Peak with excellent Sierra views.
Dutch Meadow to Mulkey Meadow
~8 min drive
Gentle 8-mile meadow walk connecting Dutch and Mulkey Meadows.
