Cottonwood Lakes Trail Guide | Lakes #1, #3, #4 & #5 via New Army Pass
Cottonwood Lakes Trail Guide
Lake #1, #3, #4 & #5 via New Army Pass Loop
Quick Summary
Cottonwood Lakes is one of the most beginner-friendly alpine lake hikes in the Eastern Sierra.
Despite covering nearly 14 miles (22.4 km), the trail gains only about 1,600 feet (484 m), making it an excellent choice for day hikers, families, beginner backpackers, and hikers preparing for Mt. Langley.
This was my third visit, but my first time experiencing Cottonwood Lakes in midsummer. While Los Angeles reached around 105°F (41°C), the temperatures here stayed between 60–73°F (16–23°C)—perfect for a full day in the alpine.
Trail Overview
A relaxed alpine hike through open meadows beneath 14,026-foot Mount Langley and five unique lakes.
Cottonwood Lakes AllTrail Link
Photo Journal
5:00 AM — Trailhead
The hike began before sunrise with headlamps.
Even in early August, the morning air at over 10,000 feet (3,048 m) was cool enough for a light jacket.
Forest Trail
The first few miles follow a gentle forest trail.
This section isn't particularly dramatic, but the gradual climb makes Cottonwood Lakes one of the easiest ways to experience alpine scenery in the Eastern Sierra.
John Muir Wilderness
Crossing into the John Muir Wilderness always feels like the real beginning of the hike.
The scenery slowly opens as Cottonwood Meadow comes into view.
Creek Crossing
Water is rarely a concern on this trail.
Several reliable creeks make it easy to refill water without carrying excessive weight.
Cottonwood Meadow
Cottonwood Meadow (11,008 ft / 3,355 m)
This is where the landscape completely changes.
Mt. Langley (14,032 ft / 4,277 m) rises above the meadow while granite walls surround the basin. Even after three visits, this remains one of my favorite views along the trail.
Lake #1
The marsh vegetation and reeds create a unique foreground with Mt. Langley standing behind the lake.
On the Way to Lake #3
Lake #4
More backpackers camp here, surrounded by granite scenery and open views. Although the area looks exposed, I discovered several giant boulders that provide surprisingly comfortable natural shade.
View from Above Lake #4
A short walk up the nearby hill reveals one of the best viewpoints on the entire hike.
Cottonwood Meadow and Lakes #1–3 spread out below, while Lakes #4, #5, and Mt. Langley dominate the opposite side.
Lake #5
Lake #5 has crystal clear water, surrounded by towering granite cliffs.
Swimming at Lake #3
It was my first time swimming comfortably in a Sierra alpine lake. The shallow shoreline had warmed enough during midsummer that the water felt refreshing rather than painfully cold.
After spending time in the water, I finally understood why so many backpackers choose to camp here.
Back to the Trailhead
The trail never becomes steep, but the final miles feel longer than expected.
It isn't the climbing that makes this hike tiring. it's simply the distance after leaving Cottonwood Meadow.
Trail Tips
- Start before sunrise during summer for cooler temperatures and quieter trails.
- A water filter is more useful than carrying excessive water.
- Lake #3 is an excellent swimming spot during midsummer.
- Overflow parking is available if the main trailhead lot is full.
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Returning via New Army Pass adds variety instead of retracing the same route.
- Plenty of shade and resting spots between the trailhead and Cottonwood Meadow.
- Bear boxes and restrooms are available at the trailhead.
- Expect full sun exposure around Lakes #4 and #5.
- Lake #3 offers many shaded campsites along its forested shoreline.
Final Thoughts
This was my third visit to Cottonwood Lakes.
The first trip ended with thunderstorms, the second focused on summiting Mt. Langley, and this visit became a chance to slow down, swim, and simply enjoy the lakes.
For my next visit, I'm planning an overnight backpacking trip to photograph and film Cottonwood Lakes in a different light.
If you'd like to experience this hike through video, feel free to visit my YouTube channel :)
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