Barry PhilipsGlenwood Springs, Colorado, is one of the best destinations in the Rocky Mountain region for hikers who want dramatic scenery without giving up the comforts of a mountain town. Located where the Colorado and Roaring Fork rivers meet, Glenwood Springs offers access to towering canyon walls, alpine landscapes, waterfalls, forests, historic sites, and spectacular mountain viewpoints.
From the world-famous Hanging Lake Trail to quieter routes such as the Jessie Weaver/No Name Trail, there are hiking opportunities for beginners, families, experienced hikers, and visitors looking for a challenging mountain adventure.
What makes hiking in Glenwood Springs particularly appealing is the variety. Some trails are short and steep, while others are relatively flat and suitable for walking or running. Several routes provide panoramic views of the Colorado River and Glenwood Canyon, while others follow peaceful creeks through shaded landscapes.
If you are planning an outdoor adventure in Colorado, here are some of the top hiking trails in Glenwood Springs to consider.
Top Hiking Trails In Glenwood Springs
1. Hanging Lake Trail
Hanging Lake Trail is undoubtedly the most famous hiking trail near Glenwood Springs. It leads to one of Colorado’s most recognizable natural attractions: a spectacular turquoise lake perched on a travertine shelf within Glenwood Canyon.
The hike is relatively short, but don’t let the distance fool you. The trail is steep, rocky, and physically demanding. The official information describes the route as approximately 1.2 miles each way, with about 1,200 feet of elevation gain.
Along the route, hikers encounter rocky terrain, steep sections, bridges, waterfalls, and beautiful canyon scenery. The reward at the top is Hanging Lake itself, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation.
The lake is a protected ecosystem, so visitors must remain on the designated boardwalk and cannot swim or enter the water. A permit is required to hike the trail.
Best for: Experienced beginners, photographers, couples, and visitors seeking an iconic Colorado hike.
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Highlight: Turquoise Hanging Lake and nearby Spouting Rock.
2. Grizzly Creek Trail
Grizzly Creek Trail is another excellent option for hiking in Glenwood Canyon. Rather than climbing directly toward a spectacular lake, the trail follows Grizzly Creek into a peaceful canyon environment.
Historically, the route has been appreciated for its creekside scenery and shade, making it an attractive alternative to Hanging Lake. Local hiking recommendations describe the trail as becoming more challenging farther along the route.
However, hikers should pay particular attention to current trail conditions. Recent information indicates that portions of Grizzly Creek have been affected by fire and flood damage, so the accessible distance and conditions can change.
Best for: Creek scenery, experienced hikers, and people looking for an alternative to Hanging Lake.
Difficulty: Moderate when fully accessible
Highlight: Grizzly Creek and Glenwood Canyon scenery.
3. Boy Scout Trail
For a hike that delivers impressive views without requiring a full-day expedition, Boy Scout Trail is an excellent choice.
The trail climbs through vegetation and eventually reaches viewpoints overlooking Glenwood Springs and the surrounding landscape. The route provides opportunities to see Glenwood Canyon, the Colorado River and the surrounding mountains.
According to local trail information, the Boy Scout Trail is approximately 3 miles round trip and has significant elevation gain, making it a relatively short but strenuous outing. Dogs are permitted on leash.
The elevation gain means that hikers should be prepared for a consistent uphill climb. However, the panoramic views make the effort worthwhile.
Best for: Hikers who want panoramic views close to town.
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlight: Views over Glenwood Springs and Glenwood Canyon.
4. Red Mountain Trail
Red Mountain Trail, also associated with the Jeanne Golay Trail, is one of the most rewarding hiking options for visitors who want expansive views of Glenwood Springs.
The route climbs Red Mountain above the city, providing progressively better views as hikers gain elevation. From higher points, you can see Glenwood Springs, the Colorado River, the Roaring Fork River, Glenwood Canyon and distant mountain ranges.
The trail can be approached in different ways, including a dirt route and steeper single-track sections. This makes it possible for hikers to choose an approach that suits their ability and available time.
Red Mountain is also particularly attractive around sunrise, sunset, and during periods when the surrounding mountains display strong seasonal colors.
Best for: Panoramic views, fitness hiking, sunrise and sunset adventures.
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Highlight: Views of Glenwood Springs and the surrounding Rocky Mountains.
5. Doc Holliday Trail
History and hiking come together on the Doc Holliday Trail.
This short but steep trail leads toward Linwood Cemetery, the historic cemetery associated with several early Glenwood Springs residents. Most famously, the cemetery is the final resting place of John Henry “Doc” Holliday, the legendary Wild West figure.
The trail provides a different experience from the area’s longer wilderness hikes. Instead of spending hours in the mountains, visitors can combine a relatively short hike with an opportunity to learn about Glenwood Springs’ history.
The route is especially appealing to travelers who want to experience more than just scenery during their visit.
Best for: History enthusiasts, families, short hikes, and visitors with limited time.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate, with a steep section
Highlight: Linwood Cemetery and Doc Holliday’s grave.
6. Glenwood Canyon Recreation Trail
The Glenwood Canyon Recreation Trail is one of the most accessible hiking and walking options in the area.
Unlike the steep mountain trails around Glenwood Springs, this route follows the Colorado River through spectacular Glenwood Canyon. Much of the path is paved, making it suitable for walking, running, cycling, and other recreational activities.
Local trail information describes it as an easy route with relatively modest elevation gain. It also connects hikers with several other trail areas in Glenwood Canyon.
This is a particularly good choice for families, casual walkers, runners, and travelers who want to enjoy Colorado scenery without tackling a steep mountain climb.
Best for: Families, casual walkers, runners, cyclists, and accessible outdoor recreation.
Difficulty: Easy
Highlight: Colorado River and Glenwood Canyon.
7. Jessie Weaver / No Name Trail
If you’re looking for a quieter hiking experience, the Jessie Weaver/No Name Trail is worth considering.
Located in Glenwood Canyon, this trail combines creekside vegetation with towering canyon walls. Local Glenwood Springs hiking guides specifically highlight its lush surroundings and dramatic cliffs.
One of the advantages of this trail is that it can provide a feeling of being immersed in nature without requiring the same level of planning associated with Hanging Lake.
The surrounding canyon creates an impressive environment, particularly when sunlight hits the rock walls and vegetation.
Best for: Solitude, nature lovers, creekside scenery, and hikers seeking a less famous trail.
Difficulty: Moderate, depending on distance traveled
Highlight: No Name Creek and dramatic canyon walls.
8. Glenwood Canyon Overlook Trail
For hikers who want to explore the higher areas around Glenwood Canyon, the Glenwood Canyon Overlook Trail offers an excellent opportunity.
The trail follows an old road and eventually reaches elevated terrain overlooking the canyon. Local tourism information describes it as a roughly 3.2-mile point-to-point hike with rolling terrain and scenic canyon views.
Unlike some of the trails that focus on a single destination, this hike is more about the journey and the changing views along the route.
It can be particularly appealing to hikers who enjoy less developed trails and broad landscapes.
Best for: Canyon viewpoints, experienced hikers, and quieter outdoor adventures.
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlight: Elevated views across Glenwood Canyon.
9. Storm King Mountain Trail
Storm King Mountain Trail is one of the most meaningful hikes near Glenwood Springs.
The trail serves as a memorial to the 14 wildland firefighters who died during the 1994 South Canyon Fire. Interpretive signs along the route help visitors understand the events surrounding the tragedy.
This is not simply a recreational hike. It is a place of remembrance and reflection.
The trail is rugged, steep, and exposed, and local guidance recommends it primarily for experienced hikers. The first section climbs approximately 700 feet over one mile before reaching an observation point.
Because of its exposure and steep terrain, hikers should carefully consider weather conditions before starting.
Best for: Experienced hikers, history enthusiasts, and visitors interested in memorial trails.
Difficulty: Difficult
Highlight: Memorial and panoramic South Canyon views.
10. Deadhorse Trail
Deadhorse Trail provides another way to experience the dramatic terrain surrounding Glenwood Canyon.
The trail climbs out of the canyon and connects with Forest Service routes leading toward the higher country. This makes it particularly interesting for hikers who want to move beyond the more popular recreational paths and explore a wilder environment.
Because the terrain and connections can make route-finding more complicated, hikers should have appropriate navigation equipment and understand the route before setting out.
Best for: Experienced hikers and people interested in longer backcountry adventures.
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Highlight: Climbing from Glenwood Canyon toward higher mountain terrain.
11. Atkinson Canal Trail
Not every great hiking experience around Glenwood Springs needs to involve a steep mountain climb.
The Atkinson Canal Trail is an option for visitors looking for a more relaxed outdoor experience. It is particularly suitable for people who want to walk, exercise, enjoy the scenery, or take a break between other activities in Glenwood Springs.
Its relatively gentle nature makes it useful for visitors who aren’t prepared for the strenuous elevation gains found on trails such as Hanging Lake or Red Mountain.
Best for: Casual walks, families, light exercise, and relaxed outdoor time.
Difficulty: Easy
Highlight: A gentler alternative to Glenwood Springs’ steeper hikes.
12. Lookout Mountain and Bear Creek Area
The trails around Lookout Mountain provide another opportunity to gain elevation above Glenwood Springs and enjoy expansive scenery.
The Boy Scout Trail connects with the Bear Creek Trail, allowing hikers to extend their adventure depending on their experience and available time. Local trail information notes that the Boy Scout route reaches Lookout Mountain and provides access toward the south rim of Glenwood Canyon.
This area is especially attractive to hikers who prefer combining multiple trail sections rather than completing a short out-and-back hike.
Best for: Experienced hikers, longer outings, and mountain views.
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Highlight: Lookout Mountain and Glenwood Canyon views.
Best Time to Go Hiking in Glenwood Springs
The best time for hiking in Glenwood Springs depends on the trail and the type of experience you want.
Spring can bring flowing streams, waterfalls, and emerging vegetation, although some higher trails may still have snow or muddy conditions.
Summer generally provides excellent access to many trails, but temperatures can become warm, especially on exposed routes. Early morning hiking is often more comfortable.
Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons for hiking in Colorado. Changing foliage can add spectacular colors to Glenwood Canyon and surrounding mountains.
Winter can be rewarding for experienced hikers, but snow, ice, shorter daylight hours, and changing trail conditions require additional preparation. Trails such as Hanging Lake can become particularly icy.
Always check current trail conditions, closures, access requirements, and weather before starting your hike.
What to Bring When Hiking in Glenwood Springs
Even relatively short Glenwood Springs hikes can involve significant elevation gain. Proper preparation is therefore important.
Carry sufficient water, particularly during warm weather. A daypack should also contain snacks, sun protection, a basic first-aid kit, and appropriate layers.
For rocky or steep trails, sturdy hiking shoes can provide considerably more comfort and stability than ordinary sneakers.
A hiking pole can also be helpful on steep descents. During colder months, traction equipment may be necessary on icy trails.
Don’t forget that mountain weather can change quickly. A sunny morning does not necessarily guarantee stable conditions throughout the day.
Hiking Safety Tips for Glenwood Springs
Before setting out, research your chosen trail and understand its distance, elevation gain, difficulty, and current condition.
Stay on designated trails and follow posted regulations. This is particularly important at Hanging Lake, where the ecosystem is fragile and visitors must remain on the designated areas.
Allow yourself more time than the estimated hiking duration if you are unfamiliar with the route. Elevation gain can make a short trail considerably more demanding than its mileage suggests.
Also watch weather conditions carefully. Thunderstorms, heavy rain, snow, and strong winds can create dangerous conditions in mountainous terrain.
If you’re hiking alone, let someone know your route and expected return time.
Why Glenwood Springs Is Great for Hiking
One of the biggest advantages of hiking in Glenwood Springs is the diversity of experiences available within a relatively compact area.
You can spend one morning walking beside the Colorado River, another day climbing toward a mountain viewpoint, and another exploring a historic trail associated with the American Old West.
The area also offers an unusual combination of outdoor recreation and relaxation. After a challenging hike, visitors can return to town and enjoy Glenwood Springs’ famous hot springs and other attractions.
This combination makes the destination particularly attractive for travelers who want an active Colorado vacation without committing their entire trip to wilderness camping.
Comparison Table: Top Hiking Trails in Glenwood Springs
| Hiking Trail | Approx. Distance | Difficulty | Best For | Main Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hanging Lake Trail | About 2.4–2.8 miles round trip | Moderate–Difficult | Iconic scenery | Turquoise lake & waterfall |
| Grizzly Creek Trail | Varies by current access | Moderate | Creek hiking | Grizzly Creek |
| Boy Scout Trail | About 3 miles round trip | Moderate | View seekers | Glenwood Springs views |
| Red Mountain Trail | About 7 miles round trip to summit | Moderate–Strenuous | Fitness & panoramas | Mountain and town views |
| Doc Holliday Trail | Short | Easy–Moderate | History | Doc Holliday’s grave |
| Glenwood Canyon Recreation Trail | Up to roughly 14–16 miles depending on section | Easy | Families & walkers | Colorado River |
| Jessie Weaver/No Name Trail | Varies | Moderate | Solitude | Creek and canyon scenery |
| Glenwood Canyon Overlook Trail | About 3.2 miles | Moderate | Canyon views | Glenwood Canyon |
| Storm King Mountain Trail | Varies by section | Difficult | Experienced hikers | Memorial & views |
| Deadhorse Trail | Varies | Moderate–Difficult | Backcountry hikers | Canyon-to-mountain terrain |
| Atkinson Canal Trail | Varies | Easy | Casual walking | Relaxed recreation |
| Lookout Mountain/Bear Creek | Varies | Moderate–Strenuous | Longer hikes | High-elevation views |
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Conclusion
The top hiking trails in Glenwood Springs offer something for almost every type of outdoor enthusiast. If you’re visiting for the first time, Hanging Lake Trail is the obvious bucket-list experience, provided you obtain the required permit and are prepared for the steep climb.
For panoramic scenery, Red Mountain Trail and Boy Scout Trail are excellent choices. For a relaxed outing, the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Trail provides beautiful river and canyon scenery without the demanding climbs found on many mountain trails.
History lovers should consider Doc Holliday Trail, while experienced hikers may prefer Storm King Mountain, Deadhorse, or longer routes around Lookout Mountain.
Perhaps the best thing about hiking in Glenwood Springs is that you don’t have to choose between spectacular scenery and convenience. The area combines dramatic Colorado landscapes with easy access to a welcoming mountain community, making it an outstanding destination for a hiking-focused vacation.
Whether you’re searching for the best hikes in Glenwood Springs, planning a Colorado hiking trip, or simply looking for beautiful trails near Glenwood Springs, this area deserves a place on your outdoor adventure list.