Hanging Lake — Attraction in Four Corners States

There seems to be a lot of groupthink going on in the reviews here and people trying to pump their photography business so I'd like to add a review that is a bit more honest. This hike is right by the highway and you hear the noise the first half mile of the hike. It appears this used to be a rest stop on the highway and the hike starts nearby. For a rest stop hike, I'd say it's nice and a good way to stretch your legs! However, it is a permitted hike where you pay to do it and it is very crowded in the afternoon. Anytime a hike is restricted it adds a bit of annoyance and takes some of the natural element away for me. Maybe some people enjoy paying to enjoy nature. There are a maybe 5-6 workers at the hike that seem to enjoy bossing people around and threatening to evacuate the whole trail. It is shocking to see people call this the most iconic Colorado hike. Rocky Mountain National Park, Indian Peaks Wilderness, Maroon Bells, San Juan Mountains, Crested Butte, etc. are all better representations of Colorado landscapes. Most of the pictures in reviews have been enhanced significantly. The lake is pretty, but if you've spent much time in the mountains it isn't really that impressive. I can imagine this being a very nice hike before the highway and the monetization. However, that isn't the...

Embarking on an early morning journey to Hang In Lakes, we were rewarded with an adventure that was both challenging and profoundly rewarding. The hike itself, though arduous with a steep incline and plenty of large rocks to navigate, was an experience of pure exhilaration.

The natural beauty encountered along the route is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Each step up the trail intensifies the anticipation, and the payoff at the end is spectacular - a stunning waterfall, whose captivating charm makes every drop of sweat worth it.

But the adventure doesn't stop there. Make sure to take the side trail and explore behind the waterfall on your descent. This hidden gem adds a unique dimension to the whole experience that you won't want to miss.

Do keep in mind that reservations are necessary for this hike, which can be conveniently made online. But don't let this discourage you; the extra step of booking is just a small part of what makes this adventure an organized and enjoyable experience.

We will certainly be undertaking this hike again. It was more than just an outing; it was an immersion in the splendid wonders of nature, an experience that will linger in our memories for years to come. I highly recommend Hang In Lakes to all outdoor enthusiasts and...

Update - October 2019 Since our last visit they have implemented a ticketing system to limit the number of visitors each day. You now need to buy tickets ahead of time online ($12/person) and then go into Glenwood Springs to get on a bus. They give you a 3 hour return time and this was about perfect to hike up there, enjoy the lake and make your return bus. If it takes you longer you just catch the next bus so don’t feel rushed.

June 2018 - Very beautiful place to visit! The trail is around a mile but very strenuous and mostly uphill going in. In some places it is narrow and single file is needed. This can create traffic jams with people trying to go up or down so place have patience and plan for extra time. We arrived at 7:45am on Friday morning and the parking lot was getting full. I would recommend getting there early. It was fun to watch the shadows move across the lake as the sun rise higher. There is also no water or bathroom once you start the hike. No dogs are allowed so please respect this. We saw two rangers on the trail who were happy to answer any questions. Once you get to the lake I would recommend hiking the additional little bit up past the lake to see the waterfall. This is an amazing area. Please be respectful and enjoy...