North Cottonwood Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers

The quick run offers some big views and a quick workout.

The start of the trail has some loose cobbles, but mostly good flat trail

From the parking lot, the trail heads along the fence line eventually crossing North Cottonwood Creek. About a mile in, you peel away from the North Cottonwood Creek Access Trail #546 and switchback uphill. Turn around to catch the views.

Once you gain the top of the hill, the trail evens out and rolls along the edge of the steep hill. You pass through mature coniferous forest, that provides some lovely views. Eventually, the creek rises up to meet the trail, and you arrive at the intersection of North Cottonwood Creek Trail #545, North Cottonwood Low Elevation Connector.

Take a left on the North Cottonwood Low Elevation Connector. You'll need to open the gate to get in. You are now on private property, so behave yourself. Continue along through the forested area along the creek.

Once the trees become spotty and you are in open prairie, you come to another gate and head to the right and you are soon back in the parking lot.