About Cottonwood Creek Trail
This highly scenic trail is suitable for hiking and horseback riding (advanced riders). Cottonwood Canyon has steep, vertical cliffs. The elevation at the mouth of the canyon is 4,800 feet with the top of the canyon wall at 7,200 feet. At the upper end of the trail, the elevation at the creek is 7,000 feet and the top of the canyon wall is 7,900 feet. The trail is about 4 1/2 miles long and winds through BLM-managed public land, Bighorn National Forest land and State of Wyoming land. The trail accesses the Bighorn National Forest where one can continue hiking or horseback riding on primitive roads and trails. Vegetation in Cottonwood Canyon include narrowleaf cottonwood, willow, waterbirch, red osier dogwood, big sagebrush, juniper, mountain mahogany, Rocky Mountain maple, Indian ricegrass, ninebark, limber pine, Douglas-fir, aspen, and bluebunch wheatgrass. Things to note: Bring drinking water as Cottonwood Creek disappears underground at times. If using water from the creek, filter it or otherwise treat before drinking.
How to Get There
Take Highway 14A until about 10 miles east of Lovell. Immediately on the east side of Bighorn Lake, after the causeway, turn left onto the John Blue Canyon Road (#1122). Take the first road on the right, travel this road for approximately 5 miles until you reach the campground and trailhead.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Cottonwood Creek Trail
Heading to Cottonwood Creek Trail? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Cottonwood Creek Trail?
No central reservation system listed for Cottonwood Creek Trail. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/254047) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Cottonwood Creek Trail?
Take Highway 14A until about 10 miles east of Lovell. Immediately on the east side of Bighorn Lake, after the causeway, turn left onto the John Blue Canyon Road (#1122). Take the first road on the right, travel this road for approximately 5 miles until you reach the campground and trailhead.
How do I contact Cottonwood Creek Trail?
You can reach the park at phone: 307-578-5900 or email: cody_wymail@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
