Cottonwood Pass to Jordan Hot Springs

Cottonwood Pass to Jordan Hot Springs is a 52-mile loop that travels through some of the most remote and beautiful sections of the Golden Trout Wilderness. Expect wide open meadows, quiet forests, expansive ridgelines, and the occasional tricky stretch of trail. It features colorful wildflowers, peak bagging opportunities, and, of course, a hot spring. While some segments are well-maintained, others, like Long Canyon, may be overgrown or faint, adding a touch of adventure. This is recommended as a multi-day backpacking trip for experienced backpackers who don’t mind a bit of a rugged route.

Start from the Cottonwood Pass Trailhead at Horseshoe Meadow. After a mellow climb over Cottonwood Pass (~11,100 ft), turn south onto Trail Pass Trail. From there, continue onto Mulkey Meadow – Templeton Meadow Trail, moving through open, grassy flats and pine forest.

Veer slightly east on Ramshaw Meadow Trail, traversing the western flank of Templeton Mountain. This area sees less traffic, so expect solitude and big sky views. Turn south on Bakeoven Trail, then connect to Long Canyon Trail—a potentially faint and rugged stretch that winds through mixed forest and chaparral terrain. Be prepared for slow progress and navigation challenges here.

From Long Canyon, head north on Ninemile Creek Trail and take that to Jordan Hot Springs. The springs offer a rewarding stop, with warm water and signs of old buildings. It’s a great spot to rest your feet and soak your legs.

Climb out of the canyon on Redrock Meadow Trail, then connect with Cold Meadows Trail to reach the intersection with Bear Meadow Trail. You'll travel through forests, meadows, and ridgelines with sweeping views of the southern Sierra. Water may be more intermittent in this section depending on the season, so plan accordingly.

Continue on Bear Meadow Trail to Volcano Meadow Trail, eventually linking to Golden Trout Creek Trail. The terrain here undulates gently as you follow lush meadows and creek corridors, eventually reconnecting with Trail Pass Trail. Retrace your steps north over Cottonwood Pass and descend back to Horseshoe Meadow.

Highlights:

• Expansive meadows full of golden trout streams and wildflowers

• Remote and uncrowded trails

• A backcountry soak at Jordan Hot Springs

• Wildlife sightings (deer, marmots, possibly bear or mountain lion tracks)

Things to Know:

• Mosquitoes can be intense early in the season, bring repellent and a head net.

• Long Canyon Trail may be overgrown or hard to follow. A GPS app or map and compass are highly recommended.

• Bear canisters may be required in the Golden Trout Wilderness.

Weather can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer.