Cottonwood Pass, Sawatch Range Travel Guide

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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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cottonwood Pass.

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.

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Explore Cottonwood Pass on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cottonwood Pass, mapped for you.

Getting There

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

Cottonwood Pass, located in central Colorado, offers breathtaking views and a rich history. The pass connects Buena Vista on the eastern side to Almont on the western side, traversing the Continental Divide at a height of 12,126 feet.Historically, Cottonwood Pass served as a vital route for Native Americans, miners, and settlers. Originally a pack trail, it was developed into a wagon road in the late 1870s to transport supplies and ore during the mining boom. The pass was named by Dave Wood, a prominent freighter, for the cottonwood trees in the area. The road fell into disrepair as railroads expanded but was rebuilt in the 1950s. Paving was completed in 2019, making it accessible to most vehicles.Today, Cottonwood Pass is a popular destination for scenic drives, hiking, camping, and fishing. The summit provides panoramic views of the Collegiate Peaks and the surrounding national forests. Numerous trails cater to hikers of all levels, including access to the Continental Divide Trail and the challenging Mount Yale. Taylor Park Reservoir, located on the western side of the pass, offers opportunities for boating and fishing.The pass is typically open from late May to October, depending on snow conditions. Fall is a particularly beautiful time to visit, as the aspen groves along the route turn vibrant shades of gold. Primitive camping is available near Buena Vista, and established campgrounds can be found near Taylor Park Reservoir.