Starting at 10 a.m. Monday, anyone can reserve a spot on a shuttle to go hike Hanging Lake come May 1, or purchase a reservation to bike to the immensely popular trail and lake feature in Glenwood Canyon. Hanging Lake trail is closed! Do I need a reservation to bike to the trailhead to visit Hanging Lake? More than 6,000 sign up for Hanging Lake visit…, Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window), Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to email this to a friend (Opens in new window), Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window), Submit to Stumbleupon (Opens in new window). TEMPORARY SOCIAL DISTANCING PERMIT SYSTEM STARTING JUNE 1st: The initial social distancing plan included 128 permits per day, spaced out in 8 small groups. At a minimum, 5% of overall revenue goes back toward the partnership and long- term sustainability of operations and management of Hanging Lake and stewardship of this special place. Colorado is beautiful all on its own. A management plan was put in place in 2018 to protect this natural wonder into the future. Hikers will be asked to present their permit upon arrival in the Hanging Lake rest area, only people with permits will be allowed to park in the Hanging Lake rest area. There remains some question about when they may be able to resume come springtime, depending on the rockslide danger. Garfield County Back to Orange Level on Colorado Safer at Home Dial, Give the Gift of a Glenwood Springs Vacation, Spend Your Off-Slope Downtime in Glenwood Springs, Creative Outdoor Spaces Expand Winter Dining Experiences in Glenwood Springs, GLENWOOD SPRINGS WELCOMES ROCKY MOUNTAINEER. Program: zCBS4 News Evening Categories: News, Local News, KCNCTV. There are multiple kennel services in Glenwood Springs that can care for your animal while you hike to Hanging Lake. Https://www.visitglenwood.com/blog/2019/03/hanging-lake-reservations-available-april-1/ Info on the permit system. What’s the reason & goal of the social distancing safety measures at Hanging Lake? The new online reservation system, which launched May 1, limits the number of people who can hike to one of Colorado’s most scenic destinations. GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) — More than 6,000 people have reserved permits to visit the popular Hanging Lake area in northwestern Colorado this year. The Hanging Lake Partners realize that the COVID-19 situation is highly dynamic and safety measures can change frequently. At this time there are not special rates for children, seniors and the military. Put litter, even crumbs, peels and cores in your nearest waste/recycling bin. A percentage of the fees collected for reservations will be reinvested into the long-term stewardship and sustainability of Hanging Lake. A trail supervisor will help coordinate the safe passing of groups. About Hanging Lake The widely successful Hanging Lake permit system is starting its second season. What are the rules for parking in the Hanging Lake Rest Area? Reservations for the new hiking permit and shuttle system to visit Hanging Lake in Glenwood Canyon this year open at 10 a.m. on Monday. It is not adorable to feed wild animals. Reservations for a permit will cost $12 per person with the shuttle running from May 1 to Oct. 31, starting at 6:45 a.m. until 8 p.m. Reservations cannot be cancelled or rescheduled within 48 hours of your departure day. Snap away, but only with a camera. With the rise in hikers over the years, the area was getting damaged and something had to be done to protect this natural wonder in the Glenwood Springs area as well as the falls. Are there restroom facilities at Hanging Lake? Fees pay for the reservation service, visitor information, trail supervisors, sanitization of touch-areas and restrooms, conservation and interpretation services during your visit. Always put cigarettes out completely and don’t leave your butts behind. According to the City of Glenwood Springs, Hanging Lake Rest Area and Hanging Lake Trail will be closed through April 11 and hiking permits will be suspended in accordance with the statewide stay-at-home order. The 1.2 mile (1.9 km) trail is steep, rigorous and rocky but rewarding. More than 6,000 sign up for Hanging Lake visit permits, Colorado gym owners increase capacities amid confusion over new Level Orange status. Any of our 750 different species of wildflowers will live forever in a photo. The temporary Hanging Lake trail management plan can accommodate a maximum of. Stay back from the pack. Please visit visitglenwood.com/dog-daycare/ for dog-boarding options. Please make sure to check out our FAQs before calling or emailing: Hanging Lake Trail Permit System Seems To Be Working. prepared for a steep and slippery trail with compacted ice. Both reservation types cost $12 during peak season, but in the month of April, the price for a bike reservation is $9.50. The forest will reopen Hanging Lake trail only after risks to life and safety can be reasonably addressed. Some areas of the trail were also burned, as was a large portion of Glenwood Canyon. Park personal vehicles and board the shuttle at the Hanging Lake Welcome Center, located at For questions about existing reservations please contact: [email protected] or call 970-384-6309. Sponsored By. Answer 1 of 10: People have been loving Hanging Lake to death. The health and safety of our visitors and residents are top of mind. You could alter natural behaviors, exposing them to predators or even euthanasia. This increase represents 40% of the total regular (non COVID-19) capacity of 615. GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) — More than 6,000 people have reserved permits to visit the popular Hanging Lake area in northwestern Colorado this year. Please note that the Hanging Lake call center has been inundated with the volume of calls, please be patient as the staff is trying to work through this difficult situation. July is particularly popular but officials say there are still plenty of opportunities to visit between May and October. This social distancing hiking plan allows for a maximum of 240 people per day in comparison to the original US Forest Service management plan, which allows for 615 visitors per day. In accordance with FAA safety and Forest Service guidelines, drones should not be flown in the Hanging Lake area. The city of Glenwood Springs and the U.S. Forest Service in February announced formal plans for the Hanging Lake shuttle and permit system that grew out of a multi-year effort to develop a management plan for the area. !Permits to hike Hanging Lake have been suspended through May 31, 2020! Keep it pristine for everyone to enjoy. Restroom facilities are available at the Hanging Lake trailhead along with a water fountain and picnic tables. The implementation of the permit system, environmental education and interpretation program will help visitors play an active role in protecting the ecological health of Hanging Lake, improve the visitor experience and support the local tourism economy. Yes, bikers/hikers need a reservation and can bike to the trailhead and hike to the lake, year-round at any time. Purchase a hiking permit and hike/bike through Glenwood Canyon to the Hanging Lake trailhead. We understand that visitors have concerns about their reservations. Purchase one hiking permit per hiker and self-park at the Hanging Lake Rest Area (I70 Exit 125), hike to Hanging Lake from there. Officials have become concerned about the number of people visiting in recent years. Hanging Lake closes, hiking permits suspended for extended period. In 2017 184,000 individuals hiked the trail, way too many for the fragile ecosystem and the limited parking area. Hikers must make a reservation online at visitglenwood.com/hanginglake before they arrive at the exit for the Hanging Lake trailhead. The partnership allows for the City and the Forest Service to cost share and to cooperatively develop, plan, and implement projects that are mutually beneficial to the Hanging Lake area and provide local residents, as well as the American public, with high quality recreation experiences and excellent customer service. Visitors will have the potential to interact with up to 3 groups of 30 during their visit, or 90 other people. The trail is steep and rocky. Those wishing to bike or hike to the trailhead via the Glenwood Canyon bike path must still reserve a permit. Whenever you choose to go, making reservations to hike Hanging Lake is easy to do online. Will any of the revenue collected directly benefit Hanging Lake? Program: zCBS4 News Evening Categories: News, Local News, KCNCTV. hiking permit per hiker and self-park at the Hanging Lake Rest Area (I70 Exit 125), hike to Hanging Lake from there. Phase 2 of the social distancing plan still limits the group sizes and minimizes contacts, while allowing for more people to enjoy the National Natural Landmark. This Natural National Landmark features awe-inspiring scenery and gentle waterfalls! Listen to nature. Where do I go to make a reservation to visit Hanging Lake? Carving or hacking plants and trees may kill or disfigure them. This plan assumes an understanding of current operations such as the reservation system, call center, cancelling policies, and restroom cleaning agreements. The lake edge is built up from dissolved carbonates which are deposited on the shore as the water flows over. People without a permit will be asked to turn around and come back with a permit. 39.601392 -107.19179 Close Modal outtherecolorado.com | 03-30. While the shuttle system proved itself as an ideal solution to manage Hanging Lake visitation during the 2019 peak season, some temporary changes and significant adjustments needed to be made to allow for social distancing due to the COVID-19 crisis. These include flaggers and traffic holds at the Westbound I-70 on-ramp when leaving the Hanging Lake Rest Area (mile point 125). Reservations cannot be cancelled or rescheduled within 48 hours of your departure day. Please scroll to next FAQ section for questions about the temporary social distancing plan at Hanging Lake starting June 1, 2020. Hanging Lake Permits Go On Sale April 1. To keep them – and you – safe, don’t approach them. It features waterfalls, a turquoise lake with travertine deposits and a hanging garden plant community. Hanging Lake was formed by a geological fault which caused the lake bed to drop away from the valley floor above. – White River National Forest Service. Reservations for a permit to visit Hanging Lake will cost $12 per person, which includes the shuttle to and from the trailhead. Always check for local fire restrictions. The Post Independent reports that the system is new this year, part of a plan to minimize the effects of hikers visiting the scenic area. Most days were over 1,000. No, you will not need a reservation if you are not hiking to Hanging Lake. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we all work together to minimize the impacts and spread of COVID-19. No reopening date has been announced at this time. How is this safer than the normal permit system? No, dogs and/or other pets are not allowed on the Hanging Lake Trail or at the Hanging Lake Welcome Center. Fees pay for the reservation service, visitor information, staffing in the parking lot, trail supervisors, sanitization of touch-areas and restrooms, conservation and interpretation services during your visit. Water flows into the lake over Bridal Veil Falls. This temporary Hanging Lake hiking plan aims to allow hikers to enjoy the National Natural Landmark while social distancing and ensuring the highest possible safety for visitors and employees. Walking off the trail and short cutting switchbacks is not permitted. The permit cost is $12/per person. Pack it in, pack it out. Parking attendants will assist those guests who self-park. All the way to a trashcan. The shuttle season is over after peak season but hikers must still get permits. The Hanging Lake trail is a backcountry hike. The Hanging Lake trail reopened to hikers on June 1st with smaller daily capacity to allow for social distancing. Surveys indicate that most hikers to a popular scenic Colorado lake say they don't think the trail is too crowded. Reservations may be cancelled at any time, however visitors may wish to donate their permit fee to the Hanging Lake restoration fund. Preserved with care. Hanging Lake is reached by a short but steep hike from the Colorado River in Glenwood Canyon. Hikers can choose between two options which include either self-drive and park in the Hanging Lake rest area or bike/hike through Glenwood Canyon to the trailhead. And it’s just the beginning! Bring water, snacks, sunscreen and appropriate footwear and clothing. Only hiking permit holders will be allowed to park at the rest area. Please Note: While there are currently no shuttle operations, there are new costs associated with the COVID-19 safety measures. Sorry, your blog cannot share posts by email. As the situation and recommendations evolve, Hanging Lake hikers will always receive the most current updates and safety procedures with their permit confirmation email. What is the ultimate goal of the Hanging Lake Management Plan and the reservation system? Be considerate when passing others on the trails and yield to the uphill hiker and biker – they need the momentum. The closure is aimed at minimizing impacts and the spread of COVID-19. How do I hike Hanging Lake following the new Social Distancing and Safety Precautions? Keep campfires small and manageable to avoid sparking wildfires. This land really is your land. When putting out a fire, water it until you can handle the embers. CLICK HERE TO TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS. Please make sure to check out all FAQs before calling the Hanging Lake Call Center at 970-384-6309! 970-384-6309. Over the years, water flowing over Bridal Veil Falls has deposited dissolved carbonates to build up the fragile lake edge. How much does it cost to visit Hanging Lake? Colorado’s low humidity has perks, but can create dry, dangerous conditions. GET BREAKING NEWS IN YOUR BROWSER. A look back on 2020 — ‘Hanging Lake miracle ... and reservation-based permit visits to Hanging Lake were suspended and remained so through year’s end. Our state and federal agencies manage 42 percent of Colorado’s majestic landscape, and our cities and counties maintain even more. A shuttle will begin taking hikers to the trailhead starting May 1 and officials plan to stagger groups throughout the day. All rights reserved |. Learn more about the temporary social distancing plan introduced on June 1st: HERE Phase II Social Distancing Plan increased visitation to Hanging Lake by 14 people per arrival time to a total of 30 guests every 90 minutes. Why have models of Colorado’s coronavirus trajectory been off? Aside from the crystal-clear waters of Hanging Lake, visitors can visit Sprouting Rock, a waterfall that pours through holes in limestone cliffs. In addition, there are miles of trails throughout the White River National Forest that do not have restrictions on pets that may be a better fit for your needs. In accordance with the Colorado Governor’s Executive Order and the US Forest Service directives, access to Hanging Lake Rest Area and Hanging Lake Trail is currently closed. The trail will have marked passing points to ensure social distancing when passing slower hikers within the hiking group. The Hiking Experience: Orderly but Uniquely Remote. Leave plants, rocks and historical items as you find them so others experience the joy of discovery. Crampons and hiking poles are recommended! With 39,000 marked trails and 13,000 designated campsites, there’s no need to venture beyond. We will post the latest reopening information on this page as soon as it becomes available! In May 2016, only six days saw fewer than 615 visitors. Purchase a Permit to Hike Hanging Lake In order to preserve the pristine natural environment, create a pleasant hiking experience for all and prevent overuse, permits are required to hike to Hanging Lake. [email protected] While this temporary plan asks for a more orderly managed hiking experience with extra safety measures such as, designated passing zones, it also allows for an even more remote hiking experience than the usual system. Hanging Lake is open year-round and visitors during the off-peak season (Nov. 1 – April 30) still need a permit, which costs $10. Hanging Lake in Glenwood Canyon, June 2019. Motorists should plan for construction and detours on I-70 when traveling to and from Hanging Lake. Permits cost $12/person and hikers must take shuttle to trail. Over the years the popularity of the area has increased leading to vegetation and trail damage and overcrowding. Are there special rates for children, seniors and military? For current travel times in the Glenwood Canyon, please call or text 970-618-5379. GETTING T0 HANGING LAKE The shuttle will operate daily in the peak season between 6:45 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Times may vary during the season based on weather and capacity. Both permits are identical in cost and time slot inventory. Hanging Lake in Colorado has been a very popular hike for decades. Skiing during a pandemic: Is this the worst year of skiing — or the best? The goal of the temporary social distancing plan for Hanging Lake is to allow the public to access the site while ensuring the safety of visitors and employees. Hikers will always receive the latest updates on safety measures with their permit confirmation email and additional communication if further changes occur. GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colo. — Visitors to Hanging Lake will not have to get a permit this year as a new management plan will not go into effect until 2019. All hikers will require a permit. During normal shuttle operations, each user had the possibility to interact with 4 groups of 44, or 175 other people. The Post Independent reports that … The overall goal of this management Plan is to create and implement a management system for the Hanging Lake Area that is sustainable and achieves these goals: Can I bring my emotional support animal (ESA) on the trail? The White River National Forest is working with a number of stakeholders including the Colorado Department of Transportation on short and long-term mitigation measures. Updates & Details on the Hanging Lake Social Distancing Plan. © 2020 - Visit Glenwood Springs. Hanging Lake Trail will reopen June 1 with new social distancing rules after its closure due to COVID-19 precautions. Please call for special requests and Babies under two years of age. Please be prepared for winter trail conditions of snow and ice. A few extra strides on the path will protect plants and the homes of the true locals. The area will be staffed in case of an emergency during the peak season. Be advised that there is no cell service on the trail. Permits, caps and fees proposed to balance record crowds and protect Hanging Lake Plan would limit visitors to 615 per day, close parking lot in summer Public safety continues to be the priority, and there is a long-term risk of post-fire flooding and debris flow. Can I cancel or reschedule my reservation? Always wear sturdy footwear, not flip flops. I don’t want to hike to Hanging Lake, but I do want to utilize the Glenwood Canyon bike path, do I need a reservation? The goal of the temporary social distancing plan for Hanging Lake is to allow the public to access the site while ensuring the safety of visitors and employees. Fire-related erosion and runoff getting into the fragile lake ecosystem is a major concern. Learn more about the temporary social distancing plan introduced on June 1st: HERE. The rate is good for any date during the 2019 season. Reservations can be made online on this page visitglenwood.com/hanginglake. The COVID-19 crisis continues in Colorado, with hundreds of new cases being detected in the state today. Treat all living things with respect. ESAs are not recognized by the Americans with Disabilities Act and therefore are not allowed in areas that do not allow dogs, including the Hanging Lake trail. (c) @lcammarataphoto shared with #VisitGlenwood Save the Date Now While the lake is open year-round, those visiting in the off-peak season of Nov. 1 to April 30 still need to obtain a permit for $10 per person. Restroom facilities and drinking water is not available along the trail or at the lake; please pack water and snacks with you and remember to pack it out and Leave No Trace! On December 30, the…. 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