It’s time to get outside and enjoy Colorado in all of its glory. If you are ready to enjoy the great outdoors, we recommend taking this iconic hike near Denver that takes you to not one, but TWO incredibly gorgeous waterfalls. That’s right! If you’re scratching your head thinking, “What are the best waterfalls near me?” — we’ve got just what you’re looking for. This is one place you’ll want to visit again and again.

Take a two and a half hour drive from Denver and explore the Hanging Lake Trail.
Flickr/brent flanders
This three-mile out-and-back trail leads hikers through colorful trees and rocky cliffs. After a peaceful hike, you'll soon reach the awe-inspiring Hanging Lake and its TWO waterfalls! It's one of the best waterfall hikes in Colorado!
Towering over the famous Hanging Lake, Spouting Rock Falls is a series of small waterfalls that shoots out through a large limestone wall.
Flickr/junaidrao
Pull out your cameras and capture its supreme beauty. Spouting Rock Falls in Colorado belongs on everyone's bucket list.
What gives the water shooting from the cliffs its special color?
Flickr/Tim Scott
The rare turquoise color of the water is caused by travertine deposition that was originally created by dissolved limestone from the Mississippian Period Leadville Formation.
But remember -- leave no trace!
Flickr/Tim Scott
Because of the travertine deposition and other rare components, Hanging Lake's ecosystem is extremely fragile and faces the possibility of ecological disruption. When you go, make sure to clean up after yourself, leave your dog at home, and NEVER touch the water.
It's important to preserve this beauty for future visitors.
Flickr/Zach Dischner
Seriously. Don't be like these visitors. Respect this area by looking; not touching.

This is definitely one of the best hiking trails with waterfalls in Colorado. But that’s not all our stunning state has to offer. For even more waterfall fun, check out this perfect weekend itinerary if you love exploring Denver’s waterfalls.

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Elisa Regulski | July 31, 2022

What are the best family-friendly hikes in Denver?

Little ones love exploring nature, but their small legs can’t traverse treacherous terrain yet. If you’re looking for some amazing family-friendly hikes around Denver, we know just where to go. First, take the family to Lair o' the Bear Park. Here, you’ll find the Castor Cut-off Trail, a .7 mile loop that weaves through peaceful pathways and around babbling brooks. The Meadow Loop Trail, located near Lookout Mountain, is another wonderful adventure. At only .8 miles long, this breezy hike is perfect for a short outing. And not only are the views amazing, but the nature center is full of fascinating information. 

What are the best outdoor adventures in Denver?

Denver is home to some truly exciting outdoor adventures, and many of them won’t cost you a dime! During the summer, you can head over to City Park and listen to local musicians play smooth jazz. If you’re looking for a fun road trip, venture to Dinosaur Ridge in Morrison. Here, you can take a free self-guided tour and look at fascinating dinosaur fossils and footprints. This place is fun for both kids and adults! We also love visiting the 16th Street Mall and playing a game of chess on the street. There’s no limit to the amount of fun you can have in Colorado.

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Hanging Lake, Colorado 81601, USA