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Cottonwood Lakes

Backpacking2 days12.4 mi (round-trip)
Upcoming
Advance release
tomorrow, 2 PM
Trips starting May 1, 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:

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

Trips starting between May 1 and November 1

Permits required. Quota in effect.

Online reservations

Closes day of
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Get notified when we find cancellations
2 releases
6 months ahead at 7 AM PT Passed
2 weeks ahead at 7 AM PDT Passed

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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