Cottonwood Pass, Colorado

The gorgeous Cottonwood Pass, found winding its way through the mountains between Buena Vista and Crested Butte, gaining approximately 4000 feet as it climbs to 12,126 feet above sea level. Spectacular views and scenery are found the entire way, whether you choose to drive, bike, hike, snowmobile, ski or snowshoe. In addition to trails found along the pass, Cottonwood offers a unique take-off point for longer hikes and trips.

Cottonwood Pass is an excellent example of why it's always worth traveling off the beaten path. Although Highway 50 over Monarch Pass is the old go-to route for thos traveling between the areas of Crested Butte and Buena Vista, the 60 mile Cottonwood Pass road provides those looking for a more scenic, and less-seen, trip with a beautiful alternative. Cottonwood Pass is also a popular road ride among cyclists due to the lower automobile traffic, a mild average grade of 5.3 percent and rest stops with magnificent views, such as Ptarmigan Lake.