How to Get a Cottonwood Pass (PCT) Permit
The gentlest way onto the Pacific Crest Trail in the southern Sierra, starting at Horseshoe Meadows where the trailhead is already above 10,000 feet.
Check Cottonwood Pass (PCT) permit availabilityRecreation.gov permit 233262 lists a $6 Inyo reservation fee plus a $5 per-person fee.
Permit Cost
2-5 days
Duration
moderate
Difficulty
About Cottonwood Pass (PCT)
Cottonwood Pass is an Inyo National Forest wilderness entry point at Horseshoe Meadows above Lone Pine, opening the northern Golden Trout Wilderness and the Pacific Crest Trail. This trailhead has its own quota calendar. Inyo lists a quota season for Cottonwood Pass and the Golden Trout Wilderness running June 30 to September 15, 2026, when the number of people per day is limited. Reservations open six months in advance at 7 am Pacific and additional permits are released two weeks ahead. The forest's general non-quota season runs November 2 to April 30 with a two-week booking window. The permit may continue on the PCT and the John Muir Trail. It does not cover Cottonwood Lakes, which is a separate permit from a nearby trailhead.
Cottonwood Pass is the standard southern approach for hikers heading to Whitney the long way. Inyo National Forest describes it as the gateway to the northern part of the Golden Trout Wilderness, connecting to the Pacific Crest Trail near the top of Cottonwood Pass, with small streams meandering through tree-rimmed meadows in a wilderness named for California's state fish.
The Experience
The trailhead does most of the climbing for you. From Horseshoe Meadows the grade is kind, the forest is open, and the meadows are wide and quiet. Following the PCT north into Sequoia National Park takes you to Crabtree Meadows and the headwaters of the Kern, which is Whitney's back side.
From Horseshoe Meadows the trail climbs steadily to Cottonwood Pass and meets the Pacific Crest Trail near the top. Inyo says options for loop trips of various lengths branch out from Big Whitney Meadow.
Turning north on the PCT takes you into Sequoia National Park, to Crabtree Meadows and the headwaters of the Kern River, which is the standard approach to Mount Whitney's western side. Inyo confirms a Cottonwood Pass permit may continue on the PCT and JMT.
One booking trap: Inyo states clearly that this permit does not go to Cottonwood Lakes, and that trips toward Cottonwood Lakes are a different permit. The two trailheads leave from the same road.
What to Expect
A trailhead at Horseshoe Meadows that starts high and climbs gently
A Cottonwood Pass quota season of June 30 to September 15, 2026, distinct from the rest of Inyo
A permit that may continue on the Pacific Crest Trail and John Muir Trail
Loop options branching from Big Whitney Meadow
No access to Cottonwood Lakes on this permit
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Permit Requirements
No campfires at Rocky Basin Lakes or Chicken Spring Lake
Bear containers are required for storage of food and trash in this area
Maximum group size is 15
Golden Trout Wilderness regulations apply
Sequoia and Kings Canyon wilderness regulations apply once you enter the park, including no pets and an off-trail group size limit of 8
Trips going toward Cottonwood Lakes are a different permit
Gear & Preparation
Required Gear
- •A bear canister - Inyo requires containers in this food storage restriction area
- •A stove, since fires are prohibited at Chicken Spring Lake and Rocky Basin Lakes
- •Water treatment for the meadow streams
- •Warm layers for camps above 10,000 feet even in August
Hazards & Safety
Altitude from the first step, since the trailhead itself is high
Thin water between meadows in late summer
Afternoon thunderstorms on the open plateau
Bears in the Golden Trout drainages, which is why containers are required
Best Time to Visit
The Cottonwood Pass quota season is June 30 to September 15 in 2026, which is effectively the season. August is the most stable weather. Early September gives cold nights and the quietest meadows before the quota window closes.
Pro Tips
Check the trailhead name twice at booking - Cottonwood Pass and Cottonwood Lakes leave from the same road and are different permits
The quota window here is only June 30 to September 15, which is much tighter than the rest of Inyo
Sleep at Horseshoe Meadows campground the night before to take the edge off the altitude
Carry more water than the map suggests in August, when the meadow streams drop
This is the sane approach to Whitney's west side if the Whitney lottery did not go your way
100+ wilderness permits, extensive backcountry experience
This guide is based on personal experience obtaining wilderness permits and is regularly updated to reflect current policies and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a Cottonwood Pass (PCT) permit?
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Cottonwood Pass (PCT) permits require advance reservations. Book online as soon as reservations open for your desired dates.
When is the best time to visit Cottonwood Pass (PCT)?
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The Cottonwood Pass quota season is June 30 to September 15 in 2026, which is effectively the season. August is the most stable weather. Early September gives cold nights and the quietest meadows before the quota window closes.
How difficult is Cottonwood Pass (PCT)?
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Parties heading for Whitney's west side, PCT section hikers, and anyone who wants high country without a brutal climb.
What gear do I need for Cottonwood Pass (PCT)?
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Essential gear includes: A bear canister - Inyo requires containers in this food storage restriction area, A stove, since fires are prohibited at Chicken Spring Lake and Rocky Basin Lakes, Water treatment for the meadow streams, Warm layers for camps above 10,000 feet even in August.
Don't Miss Your Cottonwood Pass (PCT) Permit
Cancellations happen every day. PermitSnag monitors Cottonwood Pass (PCT) availability 24/7 and alerts you the moment a spot opens up.
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