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South Texas Creek Trail

Out and back on the South Texas Creek Trailhead from the Cottonwood Pass Trailhead is a moderate hike covering 8.6 miles and 2,300 feet of elevation gain. This trail is within the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness on the Gunnison National Forest, and the trail is part of the Colorado Trail Collegiate West route, as well as the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, so say hello to thru-hikers! Less popular than other hikes from the top of Cottonwood Pass, South Texas Creek Traverses alpine tundra and forest between 12,223 feet at the top, and 10,298 at Texas Creek.

Beginning at the top of Cottonwood Pass, the highest paved crossing of the Continental Divide in the country, the South Texas Creek Trail takes hikers into the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness from alpine tundra to subalpine forest in an area most used by Colorado Trail and Continental Divide thru-hikers get to see. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash. A moderate 8.6 mile round trip with 2,300 feet of elevation gain can be extended on the Texas Creek Trail. Popular with anglers, the Texas Creek Trail provides access Lake Claire and Rebecca Lake at the head of the Texas Creek Valley.

Parking is available at the top of Cottonwood Pass and there are no fees or permits required.

  • Suitable Activities: Backpacking, Fly Fishing, Hiking
  • Seasons: June, July, August, September
  • Weather: View weather forecast
  • Length: 8.6 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 2,300 ft
  • 12,223 ft
  • Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
    Collegiate Peaks Wilderness Area, Gunnison Ranger District (GMUG)
  • Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
  • Recommended Party Size: 8
  • Maximum Party Size: 15
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
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Titles

This is a list of titles that represent the variations of trips you can take at this route/place. This includes side trips, extensions and peak combinations. Not seeing a title that fits your trip? Log in and send us updates, images, or resources.

  • South Texas Creek
  • Cottonwood Pass
  • South Texas Creek via Cottonwood Pass
  • Colorado Trail via Cottonwood Pass
  • Continental Divide National Scenic Trail via Cottonwood Pass
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