Hanging Lake

Hanging Lake sits at 2187 meters elevation and shows turquoise water formed by limestone deposits along a steep slope in Glenwood Canyon. The water comes from a small spring and flows over several steps, with pale mineral layers forming the edges of the basin.

The body of water formed when a section of ground slipped along a fault line and created a natural basin. Waters from Dead Horse Creek filled this area and shaped its current form.

The name refers to how the body of water appears suspended along a steep cliff face high above the canyon floor. Visitors come here to see the clear waters and walk the forest trails that wind through the surrounding woodland.

Visitors need to secure permits in advance for 12 dollars in summer or 10 dollars in winter, as daily entry is limited by number. The parking area sits at a rest stop near Interstate 70, where the trail to the water begins.

The water continuously deposits limestone that forms fine white crusts on logs and stones. This process slowly changes the shoreline and allows new structures to grow along the edges of the basin.

Location: Garfield County

Elevation above the sea: 2,187 m

GPS coordinates: 39.60165,-107.19200

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:58