HIKING RESOURCE GUIDE


HANGING LAKE RESOURCE GUIDE
HELPFUL INFORMATION TO PREPARE YOU FOR THE TRAIL
Located in the breathtaking Glenwood Canyon near Glenwood Springs, Hanging Lake is one of Colorado’s most iconic hiking destinations. Known for its serene beauty and clear turquoise waters, this natural gem draws visitors from all over. Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 2011, Hanging Lake offers an unforgettable hiking experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Permits are required and must be secured in advance.
This comprehensive guide provides all the details you need to plan your visit, from trail details and important facts to driving directions, permit information, and local recommendations.
This resource guide is regularly updated to provide the latest information, so you're prepared to have an enjoyable hiking adventure.
HLA CO-OP TIP
APPLY THE FOLLOWING PROMO CODE TO SAVE 20% OFF RAFTING, E-BIKE & BIKE RENTALS:
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HOW TO PURCHASE
HANGING LAKE PERMITS & COST
We’re excited to announce the upcoming reopening of the Hanging Lake Trail, with the trail set to open July 2025 following the US Forest Service’s Trail Redesign Project. Hiking permits are currently available for purchase. First hiking date available is July 1, 2025 with daily availability until April 2026.
SUMMER PRICING
$12.00 / PERSON
(Updated status as of 5/1/2025)
(05/01/25 -10/31/25)
WINTER PRICING
$10.00 / PERSON
(Updated status as of 5/1/2025)
(11/01/24 – 4/30/25)
HOW TO MANAGE AN EXISTING
HANGING LAKE RESERVATION
Hanging Lake Adventure Co-op is happy to help with any new reservations. However, all existing reservation inquiries, changes, or cancellations need to be directed to H2O Ventures, as the official permit provider, at the links provided within your Hanging Lake Permit Confirmation Email or the information below:
CALL : 970-341-9030
EMAIL: [email protected]

PACKING & PREPARING
RECOMMENDED HANGING LAKE PACKING LIST
ESSENTIALS
(The following items are either required or strongly recommended)
- Hiking Permit – Required for access (click button above to reserve online)
- Sturdy Hiking Shoes – Trail is rocky and can be slippery
- Daypack – Small and lightweight for essentials
- Water (at least 1.5–2L per person) – No water sources on the trail
- Snacks/Energy Bars – Quick fuel for the hike
- Sun Protection – Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (trail is exposed in areas)
- Weather-Appropriate Layers – Lightweight jacket or rain shell
- Trekking Poles (optional) – Helpful for stability on steep sections
ADDITIONAL COMFORTS OR SEASONAL ITEMS
(These items )
- Camera/Phone – The lake is stunning, but no swimming allowed!
- Extra Socks – In case your feet get wet
- Electrolytes – Hydration tablets or sports drink mix
- Light Gloves – If hiking in cooler weather
- Microspikes or Traction Devices – Trail can be icy
- Insulated Layers – Temps can be much colder near the lake
- Gloves & Beanie – Essential for warmth
ITEMS AVAILABLE AT
HANGING LAKE ADVENTURE CO-OP STORE

ENERGY BARS
Available for purchase

HIKING POLES Available for purchase or rent

SHOE TRACTION
Available for purchase

WATER BOTTLES
Available for purchase
HOW TO ACCESS
THE HANGING LAKE TRAILHEAD
DRIVING ACCESS INFORMATION
Directions from the WEST: Head east on I-70 from Glenwood Springs. Take Exit 125 to enter the Hanging Lake Trailhead parking area.
Directions from the EAST: Head west on I-70. Take Exit 119, then double back and re-enter I-70 now traveling eastbound. Take Exit 125 to enter the Hanging Lake Trailhead parking area.
BICYCLE ACCESS INFORMATION
Cyclists with a confirmed reservation to hike can access the Hanging Lake Trail via the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path. If you bike to the Hanging Lake Trailhead, your hike must be finished by 3:00 pm to avoid potential afternoon rain in Glenwood Canyon. Given the limited availability for Hanging Lake hiking reservations, it is recommended to purchase your hiking permits before arranging bike rentals.
HLA CO-OP TIP
APPLY THE FOLLOWING PROMO CODE TO SAVE 20% OFF E-BIKE & BIKE RENTALS:
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HANGING LAKE
TRAIL & TRAILHEAD ACCESS INFORMATION
TRAIL STATUS / CONDITIONS
(Updated status as of 5/1/2025)
The Hanging Lake Trail is currently CLOSED, but hiking permits are currently available for purchase. First hiking date available is July 1, 2025.
TRAIL ACCESS STATUS
(Updated status as of 5/1/2025)
The Hanging Lake Trail is currently CLOSED, but hiking permits are available for purchase. Cyclists who have a confirmed reservation can access the Hanging Lake Trail via the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path. Cyclists are encouraged to be off Hanging Lake Trail by 3:00pm due to potential afternoon showers as you ride back to Glenwood Springs.
HANGING LAKE
HISTORY & IMPORTANT INFORMATION
As it's name suggests, Hanging Lake looks as if it’s almost hanging on the side of the mountain. Centuries ago a geological fault caused the lake to drop and the minerals spilling over the edge began to build up a fragile travertine deposit around the pool. Today, visitors from around the world make the hike to see this natural phenomenon and it is each visitors responsibility to ensure that you leave this delicate ecosystem pristine and unchanged.
To reach this special place, visitors must navigate a steep 1.38 mile trail up Dead Horse Creek Canyon. The trail takes visitors over footbridges, through light and dark contrasts, beside remnants of the 2020 Grizzly Creek forest fire, and over large rocks that at times serve as steps.
After gaining 1200 feet above the Colorado River, the Bridal Veil waterfalls spill into Hanging Lake. Icy water gushes out of the limestone cliff through a hole named Spouting Rock, with a hidden path winding underneath. Striking mountain beauty is blended with the residue of a fire that came close, but did not take, our beautiful turquoise lake. After the hike relax on the boardwalk to experience both the peace and the boldness of nature.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR YOUR HIKE:
- Be sure all hikers in your group are capable of doing a steep climb over rock steps.
- Wear appropriate hiking footwear. Light sandals won’t do.
- In winter months you might want traction such as cleats and hiking poles. It’s beautiful but slippery!
- Bring water. Snacks are always great, too. Be sure to pack out your trash.
- No restrooms at the lake, but excellent ones are provided at the trailhead, along with picnic tables and water.
- Cell service is not available.
THE ECOLOGY IS EXTREMELY FRAGILE, SO THE FOLLOWING ARE NOT ALLOWED:
- Dogs or other pets
- Fishing, swimming or any bodily contact with the water, including standing on the log
- Drones
- Harassing wildlife
- Cutting switchbacks or walking off the trail
- Littering…pack all items out with you
BE COURTEOUS & PRACTICE
LEAVE NO TRACE PRINCIPLES
Leave No Trace is a fundamental set of principles aimed at minimizing human impact on the environment while enjoying outdoor activities. It emphasizes the importance of respecting and preserving natural environments for the enjoyment of present and future generations.
Preparation and Planning
Thorough planning ensures a safer and more sustainable outdoor experience while reducing harm to the environment.
Proper Waste Disposal
Pack out all trash and waste materials, leaving no trace of human presence behind.
Preservation of Natural Features
Respect the integrity of natural landscapes by refraining from disturbing rocks, plants, and other natural elements.
Respect for Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, refraining from feeding or approaching them to avoid disrupting their natural behaviors.
Courtesy to Fellow Outdoor Enthusiasts
Maintain a low impact by minimizing noise levels, yielding to others on trails, and fostering a positive outdoor experience for all.
HANGING LAKE TRAIL REDESIGN
PROJECT INFORMATION & MAP
The aim of this initiative is to revitalize, enrich, and reinstate both the trail and recreational amenities within the Hanging Lake Trail Recreation Area. Following post-fire debris flows during the summer of 2021, this trail and its associated infrastructure suffered adverse effects. Thanks to the United States Forest Service for making the Hanging Lake Trail Redesign project a top priority.


HANGING LAKE ADVENTURE CO-OP
RECOMMENDATIONS & INSIDER TIPS
We’ve been to Hanging Lake many times and each time we have experienced something new, unique, and beautiful. We hiked it when we were kids, as young adults, and now as parents with kids of our own. When the Glenwood Canyon Recreation / Bike Trail is open, our favorite way to access the Hanging Lake Trail is by riding E-Bikes, allowing us to stop and fully enjoy the incredible scenery of the Glenwood Canyon along the way.
OTHER TRAILS NEAR
HANGING LAKE & GLENWOOD SPRINGS, CO

Jessie Weaver / No Name Trail
Located in Glenwood Canyon
This out-and-back hike (no permit needed) is enjoyable for the first .5 miles, but gorgeous from that point forward. The lush creekside vegetation & dramatic 1500′ cliffs above make it our favorite.

Glenwood Canyon Recreation Trail
Located in Glenwood Springs
This paved and family friendly trail connects both bikers and hikers to the Colorado River as it passes through the Glenwood Canyon. It’s also a link to trails #1, 3 & 4 on this list, making it an ideal “bike-to-hike” option.

Grizzly Creek Trail
Located in Glenwood Springs
Another trail accessible by the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Trail, Grizzly Creek provides another picturesque, non-permitted creekside hike.

Doc Holliday Trail
Located in Glenwood Springs
Doc Holliday’s Trail and Grave offer a fascinating glimpse into the legendary Wild West figure’s life and final resting place in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.

Red Mountain Trail
Located in Glenwood Springs
Red Mountain Trail in Glenwood Springs provides hikers with stunning panoramic views of the town, the Colorado River, and the surrounding Rocky Mountains.

Boy Scout Trail
Located in Glenwood Springs
Boy Scout Trail offers a serene and scenic hiking experience, winding through pinyon pine forests and providing glimpses of the breathtaking Colorado River & Glenwood Canyon.
HANGING LAKE TRAIL
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long is the Hanging Lake Trail?
The hike from the parking lot to Hanging Lake is 1.38 miles / 2.22 km and gains over 1200 ft. / 366 m in elevation. In total, this out and back hike is 2.76 miles / 4.44 km in length. It is important to be well prepared, as the trail is rated at a Moderate / Difficult level.
Are there restrooms available at Hanging Lake?
There are restrooms with a water fountain and picnic tables located at the HL trailhead. However, there are no restroom facilities or drinking water available along the trail or at the lake. It is important to remember to bring enough water and snacks for the hike, and to pack out all waste and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Can I bike to the Hanging Lake Rest Area to access the HL Trail?
Yes, this is a great option during the summer months. As with all visitors to Hanging Lake, this option does require a permit. It is strongly encourages to first check in with the HLA Co-op to get the latest update on the status of the Glenwood Canyon Recreation / Bike Path. At times, weather conditions and trail maintenance can cause closures that make this option non-viable. It is important to have an alternative, and non-commercial (private vehicles are only permitted to enter the HL Rest Area), driving option if your reservation coincides with a trail closure.
Do I need a reservation to utilize the Glenwood Canyon bike path if I don’t plan on hiking the Hanging Lake trail?
A reservation is not necessary to utilize the Glenwood Canyon bike path. However, please note that access to the Hanging Lake Rest Area is specifically for Hanging Lake permit holder parking. All other rest areas including No Name, Grizzly Creek, Shoshone and Bair Ranch are accessible for all users.
Are pets allowed at Hanging Lake?
No, dogs (or any other pet) are not allowed on the Hanging Lake Trail or Hanging Lake Rest Area. Additionally, animals are NOT allowed to be left in vehicles while hiking. Please click here to view Dog-Boarding options.
Is it allowed to bring an emotional support animal (ESA) on the trail?
Although your emotional support animal (ESA) may provide important support for you, they are not considered service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and are therefore not permitted in areas that do not allow dogs, such as the HL trail. If you plan on hiking to Hanging Lake, you will need to make arrangements for the care of your ESA. There are several kennel services in Glenwood Springs that can take care of your animal while you are on the trail. There are also many other trails in the White River National Forest that do not have restrictions on pets that may be a better fit for your needs.
What have been the consequences of the Grizzly Creek Fire of 2020 on the Hanging Lake hike?
Although Hanging Lake itself was spared from the Grizzly Creek Fire, the surrounding area and trail suffered significant damage. The fire also caused extensive destruction in Glenwood Canyon, and ensuring public safety remains a top priority. There is a risk of flooding and debris flow in the post-fire period, and the White River National Forest is collaborating with the Colorado Department of Transportation and other stakeholders to develop short and long-term mitigation strategies. Hikers who hold trail permits will receive detailed emergency information when applicable.
Is there cell phone service available at Hanging Lake?
There is no cellular coverage at Hanging Lake. During peak season, the area is staffed in case of emergencies.
Are there reduced rates available for children, seniors, military personnel, or groups?
Currently, there are no reduced rates available for children ages 3 and up, seniors, or military personnel. However, you can call to inquire about rates for children under two years of age. For group or special interest requests, you can also call for more information.
Will any of the money collected go towards supporting Hanging Lake?
Proceeds from the revenue collected are used to support the partnership and long-term sustainability of Hanging Lake, including the operations and management of the site as well as its stewardship as a National Natural Landmark. The partnership between the City of Glenwood Springs and the Forest Service allows for cost sharing and collaboration on projects that benefit the Hanging Lake area and provide high quality recreational experiences and customer service to local residents and visitors.
What is the primary objective of the HL Management Plan and reservation system?
The main objectives of the Hanging Lake management plan and reservation system are to protect natural resources, manage congestion, enhance public safety, improve the visitor experience, and support local tourism. These efforts aim to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Hanging Lake area and provide a high-quality recreational experience for all visitors.
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