Cottonwood Pass: A Scenic Drive Above the Divide
Drive above the Continental Divide on Cottonwood Pass for stunning views, hiking trails, and a taste of Colorado's alpine beauty.
Cottonwood Pass, reaching an elevation of 12,126 feet, is a stunning paved mountain pass connecting Buena Vista and Almont in central Colorado. Traversing the Continental Divide, it offers breathtaking views of the Collegiate Peaks, alpine meadows, and the surrounding national forests. Open seasonally, it's a favorite for scenic drives, hiking, and camping.
A brief summary to Cottonwood Pass
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Check the seasonal status of Cottonwood Pass, as it's typically closed from November to late May due to snow.
- Be prepared for colder and windier conditions at the summit due to the high elevation.
- Bring your camera to capture the stunning views of the Collegiate Peaks and surrounding alpine meadows.
- Hike a portion of the Colorado Trail, accessible from the Cottonwood Pass Trailhead, for beautiful singletrack trails.
- Visit in mid-July for lush greenery and wildflowers, or in late September for vibrant fall colors.
Getting There
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Driving
From Buena Vista, take West Main Street, which turns into County Road 306 heading west. The drive to the summit is approximately 20 miles and takes about 30 minutes. After crossing the summit, County Road 306 becomes Gunnison County Road 209 as you descend towards Taylor Park Reservoir and Almont. Be aware that Cottonwood Pass is closed seasonally, typically from November to May. There are no tolls on this route. Parking is available at the summit.
Discover more about Cottonwood Pass
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St. Elmo, co
14.9 km
Experience the captivating history and stunning landscapes of St. Elmo, Colorado's preserved ghost town nestled in the Rockies.
Alpine Tunnel West Portal
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Alpine Tunnel Historic District
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Historic Jailhouse
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Explore the historic Jailhouse in Buena Vista, Colorado - a captivating glimpse into the past and a must-visit for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Fossil Ridge Wilderness
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Discover the pristine landscapes and abundant wildlife of Fossil Ridge Wilderness, a hidden gem in Colorado perfect for outdoor adventure enthusiasts.
Interlaken Historic Resort
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Experience the elegance of the 19th century at Interlaken Historic Resort, a picturesque historical landmark surrounded by the natural beauty of Twin Lakes, Colorado.
Twin Lakes Historic District
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Southern Rocky Mountains
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Ohio Town Historic Jail
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Steve's Original Salida Walking Tours - The #1 Rated Walking Tour Company in Colorado!
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Pipeline Leadville
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Three Rivers Resort & Outfitting
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Smokestack
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Unmissable attractions to see
Cottonwood Lake Campground
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Cottonwood Lake
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Cottonwood Lake Picnic Area
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Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort
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Performance Tours Rafting
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AVA Rafting & Zipline
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Gunnison National Forest
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Willis Gulch Trailhead
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The Adventure Company
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American Adventure Expeditions - Whitewater Rafting
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Wilderness Aware Rafting
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Collegiate Peaks Overlook
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Noah's Ark Whitewater Rafting & Adventure Co.
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Monumental Expeditions Rafting
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Browns Canyon National Monument
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Essential places to dine
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Three Rivers Smokehouse
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Shell
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Hunger Junction
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Paradise Warming House
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Mt. Massive Golf Course
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The Club at Crested Butte
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Wild Bill's Restaurant
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Golf Cabin Bar & Grill
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Robin's in Salida
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The Ice Bar at Uley's Cabin
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Uley's Cabin
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Sonic Drive-In
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Umbrella Bar
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PEPE’S KITCHEN
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tenderfoot Farm
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Green Door Collectibles
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Big R Stores - Leadville
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Grateful Paws
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McFee Silversmiths
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Roots Rx Leadville Dispensary
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Earl's
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Circle K
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Walmart Supercenter
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Scarlet Tavern
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The Manhattan Bar
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The Velveteen
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Affinity Salon
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Anthracite Spirits Company Tasting Lounge
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Pitas in Paradise
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Birdies Golf Bar
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The Secret Stash
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Talk of the Town
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The Dogwood
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Elk Avenue Prime
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The Eldo Brewery
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The Hideout
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