After lunch we decided that we would go to Hanging Lake….a short drive out of Glenwood Springs going toward Denver.

The trail to Hanging Lake is plainly marked with a nice walking path to the trail head.  We met many, many, many people either going up the 1.2 mile trail or coming back.

This is something I have always wanted to do, but we just never have.  My parents did it when they were about my age, Momma was 63 and Daddy 66, they delighted in seeing this incredible natural wonder.

Several of Kelly’s friends had walked up to the lake so making the decision to go was easy.

If you are EVER in the Glenwood Springs Canyon area I HIGHLY recommend you stop, walk to the top and visit this amazing lake.  The hike is free. You will not be alone as there are lots of people going up and coming down.

I took way too many photos so I’m going to only give you a tiny idea of the grandeur of this place.

There are 7 bridges and several water falls.

The two oldest grandchildren ran all the way up and all the way down.  Tally walked both ways by herself, never once crying or asking to be carried.

We more than enjoyed the waterfalls

Some small and some large.

There are sign markers letting you know how far you have traveled

The closer you get to the lake the flora changes and you start to see ferns…which are rare in our part of the world.

Then suddenly you are there!

A magical world, making one think of fairies and elves and unicorns.

The water is so clear you can see the fish.

Not many people get to walk under a waterfall…but maybe,  just maybe, if you are lucky you get too.

Back at the real world we were met with cars and roads and well, reality.

I encourage everyone to walk this short distance of 1.2 miles at least once in their life.

Linda