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Hanging Lake Trail in White River National Forest

The Hanging Lake Trail offers an unforgettable hiking experience in Colorado's White River National Forest. The route follows a scenic canyon, with lush greenery and multiple footbridges crossing over Dead Horse Creek, leading to the striking turquoise lake. As you reach the top, you're rewarded with a breathtaking view of the hanging lake surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, and a nearby waterfall cascading from Sprouting Rock​. While the trail is moderately challenging due to its steep ascent, the stunning natural beauty at the summit is well worth the effort. #Hiking #Canyon #Lake #Waterfall #River #Forest #Nature

  • Distance: 1.4 mi
  • Elevation gain: 331 m
  • Maximum elevation: 2,199 m
  • Elevation loss: 8 m
  • Minimum elevation: 1,867 m

Interactive trail map

Trail profile

  • Distance: 1.4 mi
  • Elevation gain: 331 m
  • Maximum elevation: 2,199 m
  • Elevation loss: 8 m
  • Minimum elevation: 1,867 m

About this trail

Name: Hanging Lake Trail in White River National Forest trail, distance, elevation, map, profile, GPS track

Start: CDOT Rest Area: Hanging Lake, Glenwood Canyon Trail, Garfield County, Colorado, United States (39.58960 -107.18965)

End: Hanging Lake Trail, Garfield County, Colorado, United States (39.60118 -107.19170)

Coordinates: 39.58960 -107.19336 39.60118 -107.18338

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Hanging Lake

United States > Colorado > Garfield County

Starting beside the Colorado River in Glenwood Canyon, the route leaves the canyon floor and enters Dead Horse Creek Canyon, climbing into the White River National Forest. The ascent follows a shaded, rocky gorge with footbridges, creek crossings, switchbacks, rock steps, and fire-marked canyon scenery before…

Distance: 3.1 mi • Elevation gain: 378 m • Maximum elevation: 2,224 m

Gear up for your next adventure:

🌂Windproof Trekking Umbrellas - Surprising but effective rain protection on low-wind trails
🦶Anti-Blister Balms - Protect your feet before long topographic expeditions
GPS Outdoor Watches - Watches with GPS tracking for hiking and exploration
👖Packable Overtrousers - Quick-deploy rain protection for legs in sudden storms
🧭Professional Hiking Compasses - High-precision liquid-filled compasses for map reading and orientation

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