Hanging Lake

September 17, 2011

One word describes this trail - ROUGH!  The view from the top is completely worth it though!

Hanging Lake Trailhead

The trailhead is about 7 miles east of Glenwood Springs right off highway 70 and the exit sign clearly says Hanging Lake.  


This trail is only 2.4 miles round trip but it has earned it's difficulty grade.  For the first 3/4 mile the trail climbs steadily, gaining about 1,000 feet.  It's rocky and a little rough, but with a few rest stops we were able to make it.

Cascading water along the hike

My hiking partners, Rich (my husband) on the bench and Brian

After that the trail comes to a straight uphill climb for the remainder of the hike.  This part of the trail is strenuous.  The steps are large, the cliff is steep and narrow, and it can be very slippery in the rain.  Luckily, there is a hand railing leading to the top.

Just before you reach Hanging Lake a short trail breaks off to the left leading to Spouting Rock.  This is a must see!  It's a huge waterfall but you can walk behind it and it's really pretty!



After you get back on the main trail leading to Hanging Lake you come around a corner and then you see to the most beautiful view!

Hanging Lake

This is probably the most beautiful destination hike we have done.  Hanging Lake is crystal clear and the most amazing shade of blue I've ever seen.  I highly recommend this hike, if you're up for the challenge of getting to it.