Cottonwood Pass In Colorado

Cottonwood Pass, located in the Sawatch Range of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, is a high mountain pass that offers breathtaking views and exciting outdoor adventures. The pass is situated at an elevation of 12,126 feet (3,696 meters) above sea level, making it one of the highest paved roads in the United States. The scenic drive to Cottonwood Pass is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike, with its stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains, alpine lakes, and meadows.

Geography and Climate

Cottonwood Pass is situated in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, where the Great Divide separates the Atlantic and Pacific watersheds. The pass is surrounded by towering peaks, including Mount Yale and Mount Harvard, which are both fourteeners, meaning they exceed 14,000 feet (4,267 meters) in elevation. The climate in the area is characterized by cold winters and mild summers, with significant snowfall during the winter months. The pass is typically closed from October to May due to heavy snow and maintenance, but it is open to hikers and bikers during the summer months.

Recreation and Activities

Cottonwood Pass offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and camping. The pass is a popular starting point for hikes to nearby lakes, peaks, and meadows, with trails ranging from easy to challenging. The scenic drive to the pass is also a popular activity, with many pull-outs and parking areas along the way. In the winter, the pass is a popular destination for snowshoers, cross-country skiers, and ice climbers. The nearby town of Buena Vista offers a range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and lodging.

The following table provides information on the recreation activities available at Cottonwood Pass:

History and Geology

Cottonwood Pass has a rich geological and cultural history. The pass is located in an area of significant geological interest, with rocks dating back over 1.7 billion years. The pass is also home to a variety of unique and rare plant and animal species, including the alpine sunflower and the pika. The area has been home to various Native American tribes, including the Ute and Apache, who considered the pass a sacred site. In the late 19th century, the pass was used as a route for mining and ranching activities, and it remains an important transportation corridor today.

Conservation Efforts

Cottonwood Pass is located within the San Isabel National Forest, which is managed by the US Forest Service. The forest is protected under the National Forest Management Act, which aims to balance multiple uses, including recreation, timber production, and wildlife conservation. The pass is also home to several sensitive ecosystems, including alpine meadows and wetlands, which are protected under the Endangered Species Act. Visitors to the pass are encouraged to follow best practices, including staying on designated trails, not littering, and respecting wildlife habitats.

The following list provides information on the conservation efforts in place at Cottonwood Pass:

• National Forest Management Act: protects the forest from over-development and ensures sustainable use
• Endangered Species Act: protects sensitive ecosystems and species, including the alpine sunflower and the pika
• US Forest Service: manages the forest and provides education and outreach programs for visitors