Cottonwood Pass is the high point along the road between Buena Vista and Taylor Park Reservoir. This point on the road is well above treeline and is along the Colorado Trail. It's worth visiting even if you don't want to journey far from the car.

Alexandra Pavia

November 6, 2023

Road cycling

Cottonwood Pass, rising to the west of Buena Vista, offers a spectacular journey over the Continental Divide. This mountain pass is renowned for its stunning aspen groves that paint the landscape with vibrant fall colors. What makes it even more special is that it stands as the highest paved mountain pass crossing the Continental Divide.

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Best routes to Cottonwood Pass

hikers

1. Cottonwood Pass – View of Cow Lake loop from Tincup

7.05km

02:13

300m

290m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

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Elevation 3,680 m

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Today

Sunday 8 February

5°C

-11°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h

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Location: Chaffee County, Colorado, United States

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View of Cottonwood Pass

Cottonwood Pass

1. Cottonwood Pass – View of Cow Lake loop from Tincup

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