Hanging Lake
Glenwood Springs, CO
A small turquoise lake held in a steep side canyon of Glenwood Canyon, reached by a short but steep trail. Check the permit and shuttle rules before you go, and start early to avoid crowds.
Hanging Lake lies in Glenwood Canyon near Glenwood Springs. The lake formed when a section of the canyon floor dropped along a fault; its turquoise color comes from dissolved carbonates, and travertine deposits line the shore. Behind the lake, water spouts from holes in a limestone wall, known as Spouting Rock. The area is a National Natural Landmark.
The trail is 1.2 miles (1.9 km) one way and climbs about 1,200 feet (365 m); the round trip is about 2.4 miles (3.9 km) and takes roughly three hours. A timed-entry permit for a fee is required and must be reserved in advance (as of October 2026). Swimming, wading, fishing and dogs are prohibited. Check the current rules on the official site beforehand and start early.
- Nearest town
- Glenwood Springs, CO
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 39.5960, -107.1900
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April and June. Hot in July–August. Cold, short days in December–February. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Nearby
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Campsites nearby
- Glenwood Canyon ResortCampsite6 mi from Hanging LakeTentsCaravans
- The Hideout at Glenwood SpringsMotorhome stopover9 mi from Hanging LakeMotorhomes
- Ami's Acres CampgroundMotorhome stopover10 mi from Hanging LakeTentsMotorhomesElectricity
- Aunt Sara's Riverdance RV ResortCampsite11 mi from Hanging LakeElectricityShowersToiletsDogs allowedWi-Fi
- Sweetwater Lake CampgroundCampsite14 mi from Hanging Lake · 9 pitches
- Carbondale / Crystal River KOAMotorhome stopover19 mi from Hanging Lake · 24 pitchesTentsCaravansMotorhomesElectricityWaste disposalWi-Fi
All campsites in Colorado · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Hanging Lake?
Hanging Lake is in Glenwood Springs, CO, at GPS 39.5960, -107.1900. It is about 34 mi from Aspen.
Can you camp near Hanging Lake?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Coffee pot springs campground, about 6 mi away; within 25 mi there are 11 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
What is there to see near Hanging Lake?
Places worth a stop nearby: Maroon Bells (38 mi), Independence Pass (47 mi), Kebler Pass (52 mi) and Grand Mesa Visitor Center (56 mi).
When is the best time to visit Hanging Lake?
The most pleasant months are usually May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April and June. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)