Steeply climbing trail to a jewel-like teal lake perched on a cliff edge above Glenwood Canyon. The lake is fed by Spouting Rock waterfall and Bridal Veil waterfall. Permit required year-round.
Hanging Lake Trail is one of Colorado's most distinctive short hikes, ascending steeply through the walls of Glenwood Canyon to reach a turquoise travertine lake perched on a natural shelf above the canyon floor near Glenwood Springs. The trailhead sits in Glenwood Canyon off Interstate 70 at exit 125 and is accessible only by shuttle from the Glenwood Springs Visitor Center parking lot or the No Name Rest Area. A mandatory timed-entry permit costing $12 per person must be purchased in advance at recreation.gov; the permit includes shuttle transport and is required year-round. Drive-up access to the trailhead is not permitted. The trail is 4.8 km (3 miles) round-trip with 370 m (1,200 ft) of elevation gain concentrated almost entirely in the first 2.4 km of ascent, making it one of the steepest popular hikes in Colorado. The lower section climbs along Dead Horse Creek on a rocky, root-crossed path fitted with wooden railings and natural stone stair steps. The upper section transitions onto a boardwalk that leads to Hanging Lake itself at approximately 1,798 m (5,900 ft). Two dramatic waterfalls feed the lake: Spouting Rock, where water jets horizontally from a cliff face, and Bridal Veil Falls, a delicate cascade at the far end. The turquoise-to-emerald color of the water results from mineral precipitation in the travertine rock. The entire lake shore is boardwalk-only; wading, swimming, and fishing are strictly prohibited to protect the fragile ecosystem. The trail is rocky and uneven with minimal shade in the upper section. No water sources exist on trail; hikers should carry at least one liter. Rangers patrol the lake area regularly and enforce all restrictions. The canyon walls create persistent shade in winter that leads to icy conditions on the trail surface for extended periods.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Glenwood Canyon, Glenwood Springs
- Best season
- Late May to October; winter requires microspikes
Highlights
- Hanging Lake teal water
- Spouting Rock waterfall
- Bridal Veil Falls
- Glenwood Canyon views
Tips for visiting
- Book timed-entry permits at recreation.gov well in advance; summer and holiday permits sell out weeks or even months ahead of the visit date.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes with ankle support - the trail surface is rocky and root-tangled throughout the steep lower ascent.
- The $12 shuttle transport is included in the permit fee; no private vehicles are permitted at the Hanging Lake Trailhead.
- Swimming and wading in Hanging Lake are prohibited and strictly enforced by rangers; violations carry significant fines.
- Morning permit windows (6-8 a.m.) provide the best light inside the canyon and the least crowded experience at the lake boardwalk.
When to visit
May through October provides the most reliable conditions, with the canyon walls retaining moisture that can ice over in winter and early spring. Morning time slots offer the best canyon light and most comfortable temperatures before afternoon heat builds in the enclosed canyon.
Accessibility
The Hanging Lake Trail is not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers. The steep, rocky terrain and root-covered path preclude the use of mobility devices on virtually the entire route. The boardwalk at the lake is flat but can only be reached after completing the full steep ascent.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a permit to hike Hanging Lake?
Permits must be purchased online at recreation.gov. The $12 fee per person includes shuttle transport from designated staging areas. Permits are time-slot specific and cannot be transferred; all group members must be named at booking.
Is Hanging Lake open year-round?
The trail is open year-round when safe conditions allow, but winter access requires microspikes or crampons as the canyon walls create persistent ice. Some winter dates close the trail for safety; check the Hanging Lake Permit website before visiting.
Can visitors swim or wade in Hanging Lake?
No. Swimming, wading, fishing, and any off-boardwalk activity at Hanging Lake are strictly prohibited. The lake's travertine formations and aquatic ecosystem are extremely fragile and legally protected.
How difficult is Hanging Lake compared to other Colorado hikes?
The trail is classified hard due to the steep sustained grade of 370 m gain in 2.4 km rather than distance. Fit hikers with appropriate footwear find it manageable, but those with mobility limitations or vertigo may find the rocky, root-covered path challenging.