Cottonwood Pass: A Scenic Colorado Summit
Experience breathtaking views from 12,126 feet atop Cottonwood Pass, a scenic route through Colorado's Collegiate Peaks and Continental Divide.
Cottonwood Pass, straddling Chaffee and Gunnison counties in Colorado, is a high-altitude mountain pass renowned for its stunning views of the Collegiate Peaks and access to outdoor recreation. Reaching an elevation of 12,126 feet, it's a seasonal route offering a paved road suitable for most vehicles, connecting Buena Vista and Almont.
A brief summary to Cottonwood Pass
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Check the seasonal status of Cottonwood Pass, as it's typically closed from late October to late May due to snow.
- Bring layers of clothing, as the weather at 12,126 feet can change rapidly.
- Fill your gas tank before heading up, as there are limited services along the route.
- Take your time driving the winding road, and be prepared for switchbacks and possible wildlife encounters.
- Download offline maps, as cell service is limited or unavailable along much of the pass.
Getting There
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Driving
From Buena Vista, take West Main Street, which becomes CO 306, heading west. The drive to the summit is approximately 20 miles and takes about 30 minutes. From Almont, take CO-742 east toward Taylor Park Reservoir. Just past the Reservoir, turn right onto CO-209, which turns into CO-306 after about 14 miles. Continue on CO-306 to reach the summit. There are no tolls on this route. Parking is available at the summit , but it can get busy, especially during peak season. Parking is free.
Discover more about Cottonwood Pass
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St. Elmo, co
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Experience the captivating history and stunning landscapes of St. Elmo, Colorado's preserved ghost town nestled in the Rockies.
Alpine Tunnel West Portal
20.3 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking views at Alpine Tunnel West Portal in Gunnison, Colorado – a historical landmark and scenic tourist attraction.
Alpine Tunnel Historic District
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Historic Jailhouse
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Fossil Ridge Wilderness
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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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Montanya Distillers | Distillery TOUR
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Rodeway Inn
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Unmissable attractions to see
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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
The Wooden Spoon Country
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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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Iris Moon Emporium
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Manhattan Bar
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The Velveteen
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The Office Bar
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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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