Cottonwood

This is a remote trailhead in the Mt Leidy Highlands, north of the Gros Ventre Road. It is located alongside Cottonwood Creek and is mostly open sagebrush flats. area is primarily used during the fall hunting season. This trailhead provides the main access to the Cottonwood Creek Trail #4079, the Sohare Creek Trail #4102 and the Dog Creek Trail #4104, all of which are non-motorized. A gate exists right at the trailhead, behind which is open to wheeled vehicles 50” or less in width from 06/01-11/30 for the first 2.63 miles, after which the non-motorized trail begins at a wooden barrier. Wildlife is abundant including grizzly bears and wolves. Trails in the area follow historic routes used by expeditions in the late 1800s to explore Yellowstone Park. No facilities exist on site. Single kiosk with a map. Four wheel drive is recommended. Road is rough, does not have cellular service and requires several creek crossings. Trailhead is large enough for trailer turnaround. Driving time from Jackson is approximately 2 hours.

The North Fork Trailhead is at the back of Cottonwood Lake Campground's westernmost spur and provides access to the North Fork Trail. There is parking at the trailhead for vehicles with trailers.

A good turn-around is provided at the southeast corner of Cottonwood Lake. The Slide Lake trail goes through to Poker Hollow, with access to Wagner Lake, or a loop back down to Cottonwood Creek Road on Porcupine Trail.

The South Cottonwood Trail begins at the end of Forest Road 10050. The South Fork of South Cottonwood Trail provides quick access into the high country, and provides a good view of Menace Falls. The South Cottonwood Creek Trail provides access to the Wyoming Range National Recreation Trail.

Trail Fork Motorized trailhead is at the back of Cottonwood Lake Campground's easternmost loop and provides access to the Trail Fork Motorized Trail.