The Cottonwood Creek Trail south of the town of Crestone,
and the historic west side pathway to the Crestones & other peaks, is open
for the summer. Prospective climbers are asked to contact the manager of the
Baca Grande Water & Sanitation District, Steve Harrell in advance of arrival. Since the available parking is on Water/San property,
they need to know who is climbing in case there is a need for search/rescue
service. He can also update climbers in case something changes later in the
summer.
Camping is not allowed at the trailhead. There is a portable
toilet in place, courtesy of the Cottonwood Study Group (CMC is a part of the
Group). There also is an informational kiosk at the trailhead erected by the
Forest Service. There may be a survey box near the kiosk, and climbers are
asked to complete one. The surveys will assist in further deliberations about
trail access after 2012. Please practice Leave No Trace principles along the
trail and up to the peaks as Cottonwood Creek is a key source for local
drinking water.
