Spouting Rock
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Length
1.2 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
1,200 ft
About Spouting Rock
Spouting Rock is a waterfall in Glenwood Canyon, Colorado, located approximately 200 feet (about 60 meters) above the popular Hanging Lake. It is known for water that gushes directly out of a limestone cliff face and is reachable via a short, 100-200 yard side trail from the main Hanging Lake path.
Height: 200 feet
Trail Description
Hanging Lake is a fragile, protected ecosystem, and access is limited through a permit system to preserve it for future generations. The 1.2-mile (1.9 km) trail is short but demanding—steep, rocky, and gaining about 1,200 feet (366 m) in elevation. It’s a backcountry hike with incredible views and waterfalls, but it can be challenging, especially for those with physical limitations, young children, or older hikers.
What to Expect
A big and well maintained parking lot is at the base of the trail head, they offer rentals of spikes (useful in the winter and spring) and trekking poles. It's a shorter hike in distance, but with the elevation gain it feels longer. You hike over several bridges as you wind your way up to the lake and the water fall. The Hanging Lake itself is pristine, looks straight out of Skyrim
Accessibility
Seasonal Closures
Safety Information
It is very icy in the spring and winter, and trails are not actively cleared. Spikes or trekking poles will help a ton
Location & Access
Getting There
There is no westbound exit for Hanging Lake! If traveling west on Interstate 70, take the Grizzly Creek exit and head back to the east on I-70 to Hanging Lake exit 125. If traveling eastbound, take I-70 exit 125.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Big well maintained lot
Hours
Elevation
7323 feet above sea level
Coordinates
39.601650° N, -107.191997° W
⚠️ Reservations are required for this location
Visitor Tips & Gear
You must book a permit to hike, and they fill up quick. That's kind of a pain but it keeps the trail from being too crowded. Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail may have uneven sections. Bring water and a camera to capture the scenic views.
This trail sits at 7,323 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 29% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
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Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
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This challenging 1.2 miles trail gains 1,200 ft in elevation — come prepared with proper hiking boots and trekking poles. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
The backcountry standard — filters 99.9% of bacteria and weighs just 3 oz.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Explore Colorado springsFrequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Spouting Rock?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
No Dogs
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
Permit required
Hikers will be asked to present their permit upon arrival to the Hanging Lake rest area, only people with permits will be allowed to park at the Hanging Lake rest area.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Spouting Rock?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
No Swimming
