Suspended above I-70 in Glenwood Canyon, Hanging Lake is one of Colorado's national natural landmarks. It may also be the most stunning body of water in the state: a wide, shallow bowl clinging to the cliffs, fed for eons by a mineral spring. When you gaze into its turquoise-tinged clarity, Hanging Lake can change your mood.
But first, you have to get there.
The way is relatively short but steep: 1200 feet of elevation – like stair climbing the Empire State Building. It’s also fragile. The lake was spared, but the Grizzly Creek fire in 2020 damaged the trail, then by flooding and debris flow across the fire’s burn scar. Today the trail is open again, with more improvements to come. You cannot bring your dog, fishing gear or a swimsuit. But do bring good hiking shoes and a hiking permit (you can’t start climbing without it).
About Colorado Postcards
Colorado Postcards are snapshots of our colorful state in sound. They give brief insights into our people and places, our flora and fauna, and our past and present, from every corner of Colorado.
