The trail follows Dead Horse Creek, a tributary of the Colorado River and ascends some 1,000 feet (300 m) in elevation for 1.2 miles (1.9 km) from the trailhead to the lake.

In the years following, the area served as a homestead and a private family retreat until it was purchased by Glenwood Springs after the Taylor Bill was passed by Congress in 1910.

[8] The Hanging Lake parking area in Glenwood Canyon will be closed to personal vehicles during the peak season, May 1 to October 31, when the shuttle service is in operation.

Behind the lake, hikers will discover Spouting Rock, a much larger waterfall that flows from a set of holes in the limestone cliffs of Dead Horse Canyon.

The use of winter traction devices is required (e.g. ice cleats, micro-spikes, mini crampons) as well as hiking poles.

Cold temperatures also necessitate appropriate clothing, food, water, equipment, and winter survival gear.

Visitors cannot harass, feed, or disturb wild animals, particularly during winter when they are conserving energy to stay alive.