Hanging Lake
A stunning turquoise lake fed by waterfalls, accessed by a challenging hike through Glenwood Canyon. A true Colorado natural wonder.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps, sunrise glow
Hanging Lake
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps, sunrise glow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning turquoise lake fed by waterfalls, accessed by a challenging hike through Glenwood Canyon. A true Colorado natural wonder.
"The moment you get here, you'll know why it's booked out months ahead..."
🎯 Book Your Reservation
Reservations are mandatory and book up fast! Secure yours weeks in advance via visitglenwood.com.
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail is steep with uneven terrain. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 528 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Turquoise Lake
Main lake basin
Vibrant, crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by lush vegetation and sheer cliffs. A truly breathtaking sight.
Cascading Waterfalls
Around the lake and Spouting Rock
Water trickles down moss-covered rocks, feeding the lake and creating a serene, magical atmosphere. Don't miss Spouting Rock!
Spouting Rock Trail
0.2-mile spur trail from the lake
A short, rewarding detour to a unique waterfall that blasts straight out of a cliff face.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Reservation Early!
Prepare for a Steep Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Your Reservation
Reservations are mandatory and book up fast! Secure yours weeks in advance via visitglenwood.com.
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail is steep with uneven terrain. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Bring plenty of water, especially for afternoon hikes. It gets hot and the elevation gain is significant.
🥾 Respect the Fragile Environment
Stay on marked trails, pack out everything you pack in, and leave no trace. This area is very delicate.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Your Reservation
Reservations are mandatory and book up fast! Secure yours weeks in advance via visitglenwood.com.
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail is steep with uneven terrain. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Bring plenty of water, especially for afternoon hikes. It gets hot and the elevation gain is significant.
🥾 Respect the Fragile Environment
Stay on marked trails, pack out everything you pack in, and leave no trace. This area is very delicate.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The lake is incredibly photogenic. Allow ample time for photos, but be mindful of others.
🚫 No Dogs, Swimming, or Drones
Strict rules are in place to protect the lake. Please adhere to all regulations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hanging Lake for its breathtaking beauty and unique turquoise waters, calling it a must-see Colorado gem. The well-maintained trail and new bridges are appreciated, though the steep elevation gain within a short distance is noted as challenging. Many recommend booking reservations well in advance, especially for early morning slots, to enhance the experience.
"Awesome and beautiful hike! It was a trail that was relatively easy to moderate for me, but it does have quite a few steps and a 1200-foot elevation climb within just 1.2 miles. I did this hike during my honeymoon 12 years ago, and it brought back so many wonderful memories. I love all the new bridges along the path. You must make a reservation to hike. Get there early!!!"
Dana Wilson
"This is a reservation system hike . Check out the website and reserve a slot ahead of time.
This was the second time that we hiked this trail. The trails are properly maintained. They also change the wooden bridges to new ones which is great. The restrooms
are located near the parking and they are clean.
I would say it’s an easy-moderate
hike depending on your level of hiking . It took us like almost 2 hours back n forth .
The challenging part is the going up part . Make sure to bring enough water specially when you’re hiking in the afternoon because it can get really hot. The view on top was amazing . It’s worth the hike ❤️"
Carina Basio
"Beautiful hike. A little hard to do in the three hour time slot though if you need to take it slow for any reason. Getting the 7am hiking slot time is recommended. Not as many people, it's cooler, and the sunrise is gorgeous."
Joanna Ashleigh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hanging Lake is located in Glenwood Canyon, Colorado, directly off I-70. You'll need to park at the designated lot and take a shuttle bus or hike the initial paved path to the trailhead. Advance reservations are required for parking and the shuttle.
Take I-70 West from Denver and exit at 117 for Hanging Lake. Follow signs for the Hanging Lake Rest Area and parking lot. The trailhead is accessible from there.
Yes, there is a parking lot, but it requires an advance reservation and fee. Parking fills up quickly, so arriving early or booking a later slot is recommended.
The paved path from the rest area to the trailhead is suitable for biking, but the actual Hanging Lake trail is for hiking only. There are bike racks available.
While not direct public transport, a mandatory shuttle service operates from the parking lot to the trailhead as part of the reservation system.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, advance reservations are absolutely required for Hanging Lake. You can book them through the official visitglenwood.com website.
The reservation fee is typically $12 per person, which includes access to the shuttle. Check the official website for the most current pricing.
Hanging Lake is generally open year-round, but hours can vary. It's best to check the official website for current operating times and reservation availability.
No, on-site ticket purchases are not available. All visitors must secure their reservations in advance online.
Policies can vary, so it's crucial to review the terms and conditions when booking your reservation on the visitglenwood.com website.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike itself is about 1.2 miles one way, but with the elevation gain and time spent enjoying the view, most visitors take 2-3 hours round trip.
The trail is rated as moderate to difficult due to its steepness and elevation gain. It involves many steps and rocky sections.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and wear sturdy hiking shoes. A camera is a must for the stunning views!
Yes, there are modern restrooms located near the parking area.
No, swimming, fishing, and wading are strictly prohibited to protect the delicate ecosystem of Hanging Lake.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning (7-9 AM) offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. Late afternoon can also be beautiful as the sun hits the lake.
No, drones are not permitted at Hanging Lake to preserve the natural environment and visitor experience.
The main lake basin with its turquoise water and surrounding cliffs is iconic. Don't forget the cascading waterfalls and the unique Spouting Rock.
Yes, the newly installed bridges offer stable platforms for taking photos along the trail and of the lake.
A polarizing filter can help enhance the vibrant colors of the water. Consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the expansive views.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit