Cottonwood Pass to Lower Soldier Lake Loop

This 21.9-mile loop offers stunning scenery and a challenging route through the High Sierra Nevada. Starting at the Cottonwood Pass Trailhead, located west of Lone Pine, California, the loop takes hikers through the Golden Trout Wilderness and into Sequoia National Park, offering breathtaking views of granite peaks, serene alpine lakes, and quiet solitude. The journey combines the Cottonwood Pass Trail, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), and New Army Pass, making it perfect for a rewarding backpacking trip or a challenging day hike.

DESCRIPTION
The hike begins at the Cottonwood Pass Trailhead, located at an elevation of about 10,000 feet near Horseshoe Meadows. The trail starts with a gentle ascent through pine forests and alpine meadows. After about 3.5 miles of steady climbing and switchbacks, you'll reach Cottonwood Pass at 11,200 feet, where you’ll be rewarded with expansive views of the surrounding wilderness.

From Cottonwood Pass, follow the PCT heading north. The trail meanders through meadows and rolling terrain, gradually descending towards Lower Soldier Lake. The peaceful alpine scenery is marked by granite outcroppings, open meadows, and stands of foxtail pines.

Lower Soldier Lake: Situated at about 10,800 feet, Lower Soldier Lake offers a serene camping spot surrounded by towering granite cliffs and a reliable water source, making it an ideal place to rest and take in the scenery.

From Lower Soldier Lake, take the New Army Pass Trail as you ascend the switchbacks leading up to the pass. At over 12,000 feet, New Army Pass provides panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Mount Langley, and wide-open alpine terrain. The descent from New Army Pass is steep but manageable. Continue along the Cottonwood Lakes Trail, following it back down to the trailhead to complete the loop.

FLORA AND FAUNA
The hike takes you through diverse ecosystems, from alpine meadows teeming with wildflowers in the summer to forests of lodgepole and foxtail pines. Wildlife commonly seen includes mule deer, marmots, and pikas. Keep an eye out for birds such as Clark’s nutcrackers and golden eagles soaring above the peaks.

WATER
Water is available from creeks and lakes along the trail, including reliable sources at Lower Soldier Lake. However, always filter or treat water from natural sources.

CAMPING AND PERMITS
Backcountry camping is allowed along this route, with Lower Soldier Lake providing a great campsite. A wilderness permit is required for overnight stays and can be obtained through recreation.gov. Make sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and store food properly in bear canisters, as this is an active bear area.

SAFETY AND CONSIDERATIONS

• Weather: Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, especially at higher elevations. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the summer.

• Altitude: Most of the hike takes place above 10,000 feet, so be mindful of altitude sickness. Acclimate properly before starting the hike.

• Navigation: The trails are well-marked, but always bring a map, compass, or GPS for navigation, particularly in areas where snow may obscure the trail.

PARKING
There is ample parking at the Cottonwood Pass Trailhead, though it can fill up quickly during peak season, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot.

This loop offers a perfect blend of scenic vistas, alpine lakes, and the challenge of hiking in high elevation, making it a rewarding journey for experienced hikers and backpackers.