You have 2 trips in progress.   See all
Trip Planner:   USA  /  Colorado  /  Glenwood Springs  /  Hanging Lake

Hanging Lake, Glenwood Springs

4.7
#2 of 9 in Parks in Glenwood Springs
Water Body · Nature / Park
Create an itinerary including Hanging Lake
Visit Hanging Lake and surround yourself with some of Colorado's spectacular natural wonders. The turquoise-colored lake lies at the end of one of the state's most scenic and popular hiking trails. From the trailhead to the lake the hike follows the Dead Horse Creek along approximately 1.9 km (1.2 mi) of terrain with a slight incline. Even though the hike is not too taxing and features resting areas and handrails, be sure to wear proper shoes and bring enough water. The lake's delicate ecosystem is under protection, so fishing, swimming, and littering are strictly prohibited, and pets must be leashed near the lake or on the hiking trail. With our international travel planner, Glenwood Springs attractions like Hanging Lake can be center stage of your vacation plans, and you can find out about other attractions like it, unlike it, near it, and miles away.
Create a full itinerary - for free!

Hanging Lake reviews

Rate this attraction
TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 5.0
569 reviews
Google
4.7
TripAdvisor
  • Steep hike but manageable, start as early as possible in the summer, and bring lots of water. Loved the reservation system and super friendly rangers. Our 7 year old bounded up the trail (counting... 
    Steep hike but manageable, start as early as possible in the summer, and bring lots of water. Loved the reservation system and super friendly rangers. Our 7 year old bounded up the trail (counting...  more »
  • We really enjoyed our hike! It was totally worth the climb. I loved the reservation system as the trail was not too crowed to enjoy it. Well marked and maintained. 
    We really enjoyed our hike! It was totally worth the climb. I loved the reservation system as the trail was not too crowed to enjoy it. Well marked and maintained.  more »
Google
  • Hanging Lake is one of the most iconic places to visit in Colorado. The hike can be a bit strenuous especially if you are not used to the altitude, but it's not terrible. Just give yourself plenty of time as there are some steep areas up the hill. The lake itself is beautiful. There are wonderful views from every angle and the pictures here will last you a lifetime! Just make sure you take the time to go a little further up to Spouting Rock which is what feeds Hanging Lake and it is also a beautiful waterfall to see. I highly recommend going to see Hanging Lake at different times of the year as it completely changes with the seasons and I love it in the winter as well. Make sure you get the permit and make a day out of this beautiful Colorado gem!
  • This hike was part of my birthday trip and it was amazing! Lots of places along the hike to take breaks as needed and so worth it once you reach the top. My 6 year old hiked it no issues and my husband wore my 18lb 6 month old to accompany us on the hike. It was wonderful and so beautiful. We saw Bluejays and fish and the views are stunning. Go up another 200 yards to spouting rock where you can get behind the waterfall! Definitely an item to add to your bucket list.

Plan your trip to Glenwood Springs

  • Get a personalized trip
    A full day by day itinerary based on your preferences
  • Customize it
    Refine your trip. We'll find the
    best routes and schedules
  • Manage it
    Everything in one place. Everyone on the same page.