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Colorado
9.0 mi
Distance
3,256 ft
Gain
We won't guess. Here is exactly what we do and don't know.
What we do know
Inside Rio Grande National Forest
2 managing-area boundaries mapped — agency alerts for them feed this page automatically.
Boundary data
What's missing
No access route mapped
We don't yet know which road reaches this trailhead, so we can't tell you if it's gated.
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Why you'll love it
Cottonwood Creek
AI-suggested draft · review before you go
Cottonwood Creek is a 3.9-mile loop trail located in Colorado near the town of Ouray, managed by the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest's Ouray Ranger District. This challenging route gains 3,256 feet of elevation, making it a strenuous hike suitable for experienced hikers seeking significant vertical challenge in a compact distance. The loop format allows hikers to experience varied terrain and scenery without retracing their steps. The high elevation gain relative to the trail's short distance means steep sections throughout the hike. Located in the San Juan Mountains region, this trail provides access to the natural landscapes managed by the GMUG National Forest. The proximity to Ouray, a historic mining town nestled in the Uncompahgre Gorge, makes this trail accessible for visitors exploring the area. Check with the Ouray Ranger District for current conditions, seasonal closures, and any required permits before planning your visit.
Sand Creek Basin
~8 min drive
<p>Sand Creek Basin is part of the alpine watershed of Great Sand Dunes National Preserve. A longer drive and hike is required to reach these lakes and peaks, but the mountain scenery is worth the effort. Check with a ranger for conditions before travel. Snow may block these t…
Comanche
~12 min drive
8.8 mi · Expert
Hidden Dune
~21 min drive
Hidden Dune is currently tied with Star Dune as the two tallest dunes in North America at 741 feet/225 m. Hidden Dune is named for its remote location in the dunefield, where it is not visible from most of the main visitor day use areas. It is even hidden from much of the high…
Star Dune
~23 min drive
Star Dune is currently tied with Hidden Dune as the two tallest dunes in North America. It is a majestic dune now measuring 741 feet (225 m) from base to summit. While it can be hiked from the summit of High Dune on First Ridge, it's more direct, and less up and down, to acces…
High Dune on First Ridge
~24 min drive
The high dune on the first ridge is neither the highest in elevation nor the tallest in the dunefield, but it looks that way from the main parking lot. This is the most common destination in the dunefield, providing a great view of the entire dunefield. It is about 692 feet (2…
Broken Hand Pass
~6 min drive
6.5 mi · Easy
Willow Lake
~6 min drive
9.7 mi · Moderate
Humboldt
~6 min drive
2.7 mi · Hard
South Crestone
~7 min drive
9.0 mi · Expert
South Colony
~7 min drive
4.3 mi · Easy