Hanging Lake Trail: A Natural Masterpiece
Hike to a natural wonder in Glenwood Canyon, featuring a turquoise lake, waterfalls, and stunning scenery. Permits required!
Hanging Lake Trail, near Glenwood Springs, Colorado, is a challenging but rewarding 1.2-mile hike to a stunning turquoise lake and waterfalls. A permit system is in place to protect this fragile ecosystem. The steep trail gains 1,200 feet in elevation, offering awe-inspiring scenery.
A brief summary to Hanging Lake Trailhead
- 1-70 East of, Glenwood Springs, CO, 81601, US
- +1970-384-6309
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-3 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-3 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
- Thursday 10 am-3 pm
- Friday 10 am-3 pm
- Saturday 10 am-3 pm
- Sunday 10 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Purchase permits online in advance, as they are required year-round.
- Arrive within 30 minutes of your reservation time.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes due to the steep and rocky terrain.
- Bring water and snacks, but pack out all trash.
- Check the weather forecast before hiking, as the trail may close due to heavy rain or other events.
Getting There
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Driving
Hanging Lake Trailhead is located off I-70, about 7 miles east of Glenwood Springs. If driving from Glenwood Springs, take I-70 East to Exit 125. If coming from the west, there is no direct exit; you must take Exit 121 (Grizzly Creek) and head east on I-70 to Exit 125. Parking is included with your permit at the Hanging Lake Rest Area. Note that vehicles over 25 feet are not allowed. Permit cost is $12 per person.
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Public Transport
Several bus routes serve Glenwood Springs. From the bus station, you would need to take a taxi or rideshare to the Hanging Lake Trailhead, but Ubers, taxis, and other ride shares are not permitted to drop off or pick up hikers at the trailhead. Cyclists can access the trailhead via the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Trail and must purchase a standard timed-entry permit.
Discover more about Hanging Lake Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
4D Motion Theater
11.7 km
Dive into adventure at Glenwood Springs' thrilling 4D Motion Theater, where cinematic experiences come alive with cutting-edge technology and unforgettable storytelling.
Glenwood Springs Overlook
12.0 km
Discover the stunning beauty of the Rocky Mountains at Glenwood Springs Overlook, a top scenic spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Yampa Hot Spring
12.1 km
Discover the therapeutic embrace of nature at Yampa Hot Springs, Glenwood Springs' premier outdoor bathing destination surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Glenwood Springs Station
12.3 km
Experience the charm of Glenwood Springs Station, your gateway to Colorado's outdoor adventures and stunning landscapes.
Glenwood Canyon Brewpub
12.3 km
Experience the essence of Colorado at Glenwood Canyon Brewpub, where craft beer meets delicious dining in a lively, inviting atmosphere.
Hotel Colorado
12.3 km
Experience the historical elegance and modern luxury of Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs, a perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and local charm.
Book Grove
12.4 km
Discover a charming bookstore in Glenwood Springs, offering an exquisite selection of books and a cozy atmosphere for all literature lovers.
The Pullman
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cooper corner gallery
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Co. Ranch House
12.4 km
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Glenwood Springs Downtown Market on 7th Street
12.4 km
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Doc Holliday's Saloon and Restaurant
12.5 km
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Linwood Cemetery
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Sioux Villa Curio
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Casey Brewing Taproom
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Unmissable attractions to see
Hanging Lake Tunnel
0.4 km
Drive through an engineering marvel that ensures safety and protects the beauty of Glenwood Canyon, Colorado.
Grizzly Creek Trailhead
6.0 km
Hike along the refreshing Grizzly Creek in Glenwood Canyon, a scenic alternative to Hanging Lake with stunning views and natural beauty.
Grizzly Creek
6.3 km
Hike along the scenic Grizzly Creek Trail in Glenwood Canyon, offering stunning views and a peaceful escape into nature.
Glenwood Canyon Flyer
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Experience breathtaking views and thrilling heights on the Glenwood Canyon Flyer, soaring above the stunning Glenwood Canyon in Colorado.
King's Row
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Mine Wheel
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Take in breathtaking views of Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park and the Roaring Fork Valley from the gentle heights of the Mine Wheel.
Alpine Coaster
11.6 km
Control your speed on Colorado's first alpine coaster, twisting down the mountain with scenic views at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.
Laser Tag
11.6 km
Experience a thrilling Wild West laser tag adventure at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, perfect for families, friends, and corporate groups!
Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves
12.0 km
Experience natural geothermal steam baths in historic caves, revered for centuries for their healing mineral waters in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.
Glenwood Canyon
12.0 km
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Glenwood Hot Springs Pool
12.2 km
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Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge
12.2 km
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Glenwood springs Hot springs pool
12.3 km
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Cooper Gallery
12.4 km
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Kid Curry Headstone
12.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Smokehouse
11.6 km
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The Lookout Grille
11.7 km
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Hotel Colorado Restaurant & Bar
12.3 km
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Local kitchen & coffee shop
12.4 km
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Masala & Curry
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Experience authentic Indian and Nepalese cuisine at Masala & Curry in Glenwood Springs - where flavors come alive!
KC'S Wing House & Sports Bar
12.4 km
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Juicy Lucy's Steakhouse
12.4 km
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Chomps Deli
12.4 km
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Riviera Supper Club and Scratch Kitchen
12.4 km
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EL TAPATIO FAMILY MEXICAN RESTAURANT
12.4 km
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Mama's Pierogi
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Kedai Pho & Japanese Cuisine
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Springs Downtown Bar & Grill
12.4 km
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Bluebird Café
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Himalayan Cuisine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Shop at Glenwood Hot Springs
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Legends Coffee & Gift Shop
12.3 km
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Mona Lisa Unique Boutique
12.4 km
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Katie's Consignment Shop
12.4 km
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Mad Mountain Betty
12.4 km
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Fine Things Jewelry & Collectables
12.4 km
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The Aspenite
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Bethel Plaza - Under the Bridge / 7th Street
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SUGAR Sweet Clothing
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Curious Products
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Bullocks Western Store
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The Fourth Dimension
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Elizabeth Dean Boutique
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DANCING BEAR TRADING POST
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Crystal Cowgirls Mercantile
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Coppertop Bar & Indoor Lounge
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Las Margaritas
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Stoneyard Distillery Tasting Room
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Black Saddle Bar & Grille
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Three Peaks Bar & Grille
47.0 km
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Zane's Tavern Snowmass
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The Tavern Kitchen and Bar
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Stark's Alpine Grill
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NEST Bar & Grill
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Hefner Lounge
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J-Bar
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The Sterling Aspen
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Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar
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Caribou Club
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Escobar Aspen
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