Wander the West: Cottonwood Creek Trail

To access Cottonwood Creek Trail 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." It is best to park at that trailhead. Cottonwood Creek Trail follows the road on up the valley.