After a lengthy closure for trail maintenance, Hanging Lake is open again—and hiking to this Colorado icon is back and better than ever!
Why compare hiking Hanging Lake in Glenwood Springs to a Led Zeppelin song? Because, thanks to recent intensive trail work, the path has been transformed from a sometimes slippery single-track prone to erosion into a sturdy, wide, stone-stepped stairway that climbs toward a destination so breathtaking, it feels like heaven on earth.
Arrival at the Trailhead
Visitors to the National Natural Landmark begin by showing their reservation voucher to the attendant at the Hanging Lake hut before driving into the parking lot. With cheerful efficiency, they will quickly go over all the dos and don’ts of hiking this enigmatic site:
• No drones, fishing, swimming, or dogs
• Pack out your trash
• Stay away from fragile structures and stay off the log in the lake
• Restrooms available before the hike
“Got questions?” they’ll say with a smile. “It’s a beautiful day! Enjoy your hike, you’ve got a 3.5-hour window.” And with that, you’re off!
The Trail Begins
A short, paved path leads to the trailhead, where the real climb begins. The hike is 1.2 miles, but don’t let the low mileage number fool you; it’s steep and rocky, with 1,200 feet of elevation gain in just over a mile. Yes, your quads will feel the burn. Yes, you should acclimate to the altitude a day or too ahead of your hike if you are coming from lower elevations.
The rebuilt trail is a mix of stone steps and packed-dirt segments, a major upgrade from the boulder-scramble of old. Trail signage reminds hikers they’re walking through a landscape impacted by the 2020 Grizzly Creek Fire. While flames scorched the canyon, Hanging Lake itself was spared, thanks to the heroic work of wildland firefighters. Still, the scars remain, a reminder that it doesn’t take much to disturb the fragile balance of nature.
Seven Bridges Road
Just when you need a breather, the trail treats you to a new highlight, seven freshly built bridges crossing the Dead Horse Creek drainage. As you go from one to another, it’s a perfect time to hum another classic rock tune—“Seven Bridges Road”—by the Eagles.
The bridges are so new, they still carry the scent of freshly sawn lumber. Navigating this central section of the trail, you’ll also have the chance to admire rustic stone masonry, including drainage channels and rock walls designed to direct rain and snow runoff and protect the trail. Along the way, take advantage of rustic, cobbled-together stone benches, a perfect perch to pause, sip some water, munch on a snack, and listen to the babble of the stream.
Up and Up!
After the seventh bridge, the final climb ensues. The trail steepens, but stone steps and sturdy handrails guide the way. Before reaching the lake, you’ll come upon two dramatic “Titanic” style overlooks. Both are perfect spots to channel your inner Jack or Rose while snapping a photo of the sweeping canyon below.
Voila, there it is. Hanging Lake, glowing like an emerald jewel against a bright blue Colorado sky.
Hikers leave the rocky road behind and step onto a boardwalk that hovers over the edge of the lake, protecting the fragile travertine shell that enables Hanging Lake to cling to the edge of a cliff. Built-in benches invite you to linger, soak in the scene, and watch the waterfalls endlessly tumble into the water.
Depending on the season, the falls shift moods. In spring, they are thunderous with great volumes of snowmelt; in autumn, the flow is softer and gentler. Either way, the experience is always magical. Beneath the surface of the water, look for brook trout that flit and flash in the shallows. If you’re lucky, you might even spot one breaching the surface to snag a passing dragonfly.
Bonus Trek: Spouting Rock
Still under construction, the spur trail to Spouting Rock is expected to open later this fall. From Hanging Lake, look for the signs indicating the short trail that branches off. A quick 200-yard walk brings you to the breathtaking view of water barreling through a hole in the cliff. The best part? You can slip behind the falls, feel the spray of the water on your face, and see the waterfall from a truly unique vantage point!
Your Chance to Climb the Stairway to Hanging Lake
Hanging Lake is open again, and more stunning than ever. If you’re visiting Glenwood Springs, like soaking in the hot springs, hiking to this gem is one of those activities you don’t want to miss.
Book your Hanging Lake reservations online. Seasonal time slots are available hourly, as daylight hours shorten, so do the available times. Tickets are just $12 per person. Take a step closer to one of Colorado’s most ethereal natural wonders!
