The Cottonwood Creek Road doesn't get much vehicle traffic because it is so rough. Still, its gentle grade and spectacular scenery make it a good choice for those with vehicles up to the task. The trail first passes through aspen and spruce stands with frequent views of the surrounding cliffs. After a rain, waterfalls can be seen here. Beyond Boulder Gulch, the valley opens to large willow flats dotted with beaver ponds. About 3/4 mile up the trail from Boulder Gulch is the road to the Cuba Gulch Trailhead. Continuing on the main road for another 3/4 mile leads to the beginning of a steep set of switchbacks. The easy part of the trail ends here. Vehicles are prohibited from driving any further.
If you keep your eye on the cliffs to the north, you might be lucky enough to see the small herd of bighorn sheep that lives there. While the trail stops at the first switchback, hikers with energy to spare may wish to continue up into the upper Snare Creek basin to reach several tundra ponds at the top.
Details
Location:
In the northern San Juan Mountains, about 12 miles west of Lake City
Surface:
Dirt and rock
Setting:
High mountain terrain
Vehicle Type:
ATV 4wd Vehicle
Length:
12 miles
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Time:
1 to 2 hours
Season:
June to October
Camping Info
Camping is permitted at the Cataract Gulch Trailhead and at several pullouts along the road to the west.
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
From Lake City, take Highway 149 south 2.5 miles. Turn right on the road to Lake San Cristobal. Follow the paved road about 4 miles, then continue on the dirt road for about 8.3 miles. Turn left at the fork and travel 1.4 miles. The trailhead sign reads "Cataract Gulch Trail." Cottonwood Creek Trail is to the right, a continuation of the road.
We also have the following visitor guides in Montana. Click on any additional guides you would like to receive.
Visit Idaho Idaho
Visit Idaho
IdahoStart planning your Idaho adventure. Vacation is more than just scenery; it’s about making life long memories. Download or order the free Idaho Travel Guide here. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
We also have visitor guides available in states highlighted in blue below. Click on any state to see what's available.
Alaska
Arizona
California
Canada
Colorado
Hawaii
Idaho
Louisiana
Michigan
Montana
Nevada
New Mexico
Ohio
Oregon
Texas
Utah
Washington
Wyoming
Switch to Mobile Browser Mode
We offer a compact version of Go-Montana for mobile users, allowing you to access just the information you need on the road. Of course, you can still use the full version of Go-Montana on your mobile device just as you can on your desktop.