Hanging Lake Trail
A steep, permit-controlled climb reaches a travertine lake and Bridal Veil Falls in Glenwood Canyon after extensive post-fire restoration. Reserve the correct date and transport option first; access is managed and spontaneous parking at the trailhead is not allowed.
Artwork inspired by Joellyn Duesberry
Hanging Lake is a steep Glenwood Canyon hike to a travertine-fed lake and waterfall system whose clarity depends on fragile mineral deposits, vegetation, and tightly managed access.
The reservation is only the first constraint: more than 1,000 feet of gain, a rocky final climb, seasonal transport, ice, heat, and canyon closures can all determine whether the route is appropriate that day.
- Route
- Steep 3.1-mile round trip
- Prepare for
- Controlled seasonal access
- Allow
- 3–4 hours
Quick guide
- Begin
- Match the reservation to that day’s parking or shuttle instructions
- Do not miss
- Keep out of the lake and protect the active travertine system
Build an evidence-led visit to Hanging Lake Trail
- Confirm the reservation
- Match the reservation confirmation to the current parking or shuttle instructions; there is no legal improvisation at the trailhead.
- Pace the climb
- Use the creek crossings and switchbacks to judge effort early, keeping enough margin for the same steep descent.
- Protect the lake
- Stay on the constructed route and platforms, keep out of the water, and do not touch travertine or vegetation for a photograph.
- Turn around deliberately
- Treat ice, storms, smoke, heat, or a slowing group as reasons to turn back before the final handrail section.
Good to know
Permits are required, dogs are prohibited, and the steep 3.1-mile round trip is not wheelchair accessible. Canyon incidents or weather can close access with little notice.
Notice these
- A steep, permit-controlled climb reaches a travertine lake and Bridal Veil Falls in Glenwood Canyon after extensive post-fire restoration.
- Stay on the boardwalk and never touch or enter the water—the fragile travertine system depends on mineral deposition and undisturbed edges.