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Cottonwood Lakes

Backpacking2 days12.4 mi (round-trip)
Upcoming
Advance release
today, 3 PM
Trips starting Jun 6, 2026
Best time
Book now

Itinerary

Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead
6.2 mi • 1,300 ft gain
Cottonwood Lake #5
6.2 mi • 100 ft gain
Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead
Driving directions

How to get a permit

This trip requires a Inyo National Forest Wilderness Permit. Reservations depend on your start date:

Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov

Trips starting between November 2, 2025 and April 30, 2026

Permits required. No quota.

Online reservations

Closes day of
Book
Get notified when we find cancellations
Release
2 weeks ahead at 7 AM PT

Permit details

Here is how to fill out the Inyo National Forest Wilderness Permit application:

Permit TypeOvernight
Entry PointCottonwood Lakes
Exit PointCottonwood Lakes
1st night Camp Area#5 Lake (Cottonwood Lakes)

Select a start date

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