Hanging Lake: Colorado’s Mountain Oasis
If you’re a fan of scenic hikes with big payoffs, Hanging Lake in Glenwood Springs, Colorado is the spot for you. After a short but steep trek, emerald green Hanging Lake seemingly defies gravity and juts out from the of side of a towering mountain. Snow runoff cascades into Hanging Lake over natural pillars of travertine rock. Large tree trunks regularly float in Hanging Lake’s pristine waters. If your dream destination is a high elevation lake surrounded by crystal clear waterfalls—add Hanging Lake to your list of must-see places.
Hanging Lake was initially discovered by a wandering gold prospector. The breathtaking waters of Hanging Lake were privately owned until 1910, when the lake officially became part of Glenwood Springs. Since the early days of the 20th century, Hanging Lake has been considered one of the most beautiful places in Colorado. Visitors flock to the shores of Hanging Lake to breathe fresh mountain air, hear the thundering roar of running water, and gaze at the lovely green lake.
Hanging Lake is relatively small—but plentiful evergreen trees, colorful cliffs, and tumbling waterfalls leave quite an impression. The sauntering gold prospector who first stumbled upon Hanging Lake was surely struck by the sight of a lovely fresh water lake that was untouched by modern civilization. Such a sight can reignite one’s passion for the mystery and magic of the mountains. Like all of the best hikes, Hanging Lake transports the hiker to a timeless location. There is no better way to let go of your worries than to allow yourself to be hypnotized by the rhythm of the multiple waterfalls that surround Hanging Lake. If you can tolerate a steep incline, the sights and sounds of Hanging Lake make for a worthwhile trek. Hanging Lake enthusiasts say that the lake’s beauty is unparalleled.
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Hanging Lake Trailhead, Glenwood Canyon, Colorado, USA (permit-only access; the lake is reached by a strenuous trail)
- Coordinates
- 39.589308, -107.19
- Access
- A timed reservation and permit are required year-round. The steep, rocky trail climbs about 1,200 feet in roughly 1.2–1.38 miles one way; use the current route details in your permit confirmation because published distance figures differ after the trail redesign. The $12 permit includes parking at the Hanging Lake Rest Area; vehicles longer than 25 feet are prohibited. Toilets and water are at the trailhead, not along the trail. No dogs except service animals; no swimming, wading or fishing. Ride-share drop-off/pick-up is not allowed. Check weather and closure notices before departure.
- Admission
- The operator's current overview lists US$12 per person through October 31, 2026, then US$10 from November 1, 2026 through April 30, 2027. Its dedicated permit page still lists US$12 through December 31, so the operator pages conflict; confirm the amount shown in the live booking checkout before paying. A timed permit is required year-round and includes trailhead parking.
- Time needed
- Plan around 3 hours for the round-trip hike and lake visit; this is the stated average, with a three-hour permit window. Published trail lengths differ: Visit Glenwood describes 1.2 miles each way, while the permit operator lists 1.38 miles each way (2.76 miles round trip) after redesign. Follow your permit confirmation and trail signs.
- Best season
- Permits are required year-round. Summer and early fall generally avoid winter ice, but weather and closures can change quickly. Winter hikers should bring traction devices, trekking poles and warm waterproof layers. The operator reported the trail open with permits available through December 2026 on October 23, 2026; recheck before travel.
- Opening hours
- No walk-in hours: entry is by reserved timed slot, with a three-hour hiking window. On October 23, 2026, the permit operator reported the trail open and daily permits available through December 2026. Confirm the live reservation calendar and trail/road status before departure.
- Location checked
- 2026-09-23
- Facts checked
- 2026-10-26
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