One Of Colorado’s Hidden Gems Reopens To Hikers This Summer

One of Colorado's must-see hidden gems is almost ready for visitors once again as permits and reservations will soon be issued to visit Hanging Lake near Glenwood Springs.

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The trail has been closed for the last year, but later this summer, one of the most popular hikes in the White River National Forest will reopen to guests with permits who are ready to make the 1200-foot climb.

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Hanging Lake in Glenwood Springs

The Hanging Lake Trail in Glenwood Springs is one of Colorado's National Natural Landmarks. The stunning turquoise lake is fed by bridal vail falls which deposit minerals that give the water its incredible color. The trail and its bridges have been the focus of a $4.5 million renovation project in recent years to repair damage following the Grizzly Creek fire and debris flows in 2021 and 2023.

Hanging Lake sits at an elevation of 7,323 ft in Garfield County. This trail is accessible during the winter months (with reservations and permits) but can be especially difficult in the snow and ice.

A Few Things You Should Know

• The hike to Hanging Lake requires a reservation and a permit. Reservations can be made for summer hikes beginning Monday, March 17th, 2025. The official site to request a permit and reservations is visitglenwood.com/hanginglake/.
• The trail is about 1.2 miles each way with a gain of about 1200 feet. The hike is steep and rocky, and there is no cell phone coverage on the route. Multiple switchbacks take you to a boardwalk at the top of the trail at Hanging Lake.
• Contact with the water is not permitted by anyone.
• Dogs are not permitted on the trail to Hanging Lake. Water and bathrooms at the trailhead.

Read More: Breathtaking Waterfall Awaits on This Short Western Colorado Hike

What About Parking for Hanging Lake?

Reservations and permits include parking. Permits cost $12 before the closure and renovations. Only guests with a reservation for the current day can park at the Hanging Lake trailhead (I-70 exit 125). All other vehicles will be asked to leave or be towed. No parking on the exit ramps is allowed. Remember when you leave to only way to exit is to access I-70 West toward Glenwood Springs.