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Cottonwood Lakes Trail
Located near Horseshoe Meadows, the Cottonwood Lakes Basin has many pristine alpine lakes and creeks located between Mount Langley and Cirque Peak. Side trails branch to Muir Lake, Hidden Lake, South Fork Lakes, Cirque Lake. Along the trail to New Army Pass are Long Lake and High Lake in the John Muir Wilderness. Climbing over New Army Pass the trail continues into Sequoia National Park and eventually joins the Pacific Crest Trail.
The Cottonwood Lakes are home to California's state fish, the Golden Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss aguabonita).
Common Destinations: Cottonwood Lakes basin, New Army Pass, John Muir Trail, Mount Langley
Download area map for trail names
To purchase more detailed maps or guidebooks of the area, visit sierraforever.org
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | Weather |
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| Reservations: | Reserve up to 6 months in advance at www.Recreation.gov |
| Rentals & Guides: | Cottonwood Pack Station, located at Horseshoe Meadows offers day rides and mule pack trips (760) 872-8331 |
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| Water: | Water from creeks, lakes and springs should be treated before drinking. |
| Restroom: | Vault toilet at trailhead. Along trails, bury human waste away from water sources. |
| Information Center: |
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General Information
General Notes:Maps
- USDA Forest Service: A Guide to the John Muir Wilderness and Sequoia-Kings Canyon Wilderness
- USGS Quad: Cirque Peak; Mt. Langley
- Tom Harrison: Mt. Whitney Zone
- National Geographic: Mount Whitney
Traveling in Bear Country
Historically, there has been a high level of bear activity in the Cottonwood Lakes area. From Memorial Day weekend through October 31, all food, trash and scented items must be stored in bear-proof containers.
At the trailhead, all food, trash and scented items must be removed from vehicles and stored in the bear proof lockers that are located in parking areas. Dispose of trash in bear proof trash receptacles.
For more information about traveling in bear bear country, click here...
Activities
Lake and Pond Fishing
Special fishing regulations in Cottonwood Lakes Basin and Horseshoe Meadows area.
Link to fishing regulations map
For California Fish and Wildlife regulations, go to https://wildlife.ca.gov/Regulations
River and Stream Fishing
Special fishing regulations in Cottonwood Lakes Basin and Horseshoe Meadows
Link: fishing regulations map
For California Fish and Wildlife, go to https://wildlife.ca.gov/Regulations
Day Hiking
Backpacking
Horse Riding
Quick Links
Location
