Clear Creek Canyon: A Colorado Natural Playground
Explore Colorado's Clear Creek Canyon: Rock climbing, whitewater rafting, hiking, and scenic beauty just west of Golden.
Clear Creek Canyon, a scenic gorge carved by Clear Creek near Golden, Colorado, offers a wealth of outdoor activities. From rock climbing and whitewater rafting to hiking and biking along the Peaks to Plains Trail, the canyon provides a stunning natural escape just a short drive from Denver.
A brief summary to Clear Creek Canyon
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Check Jefferson County Open Space website for seasonal raptor closures (typically Feb-July) that may affect rock climbing and trail access.
- Parking can be limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider carpooling.
- Bring appropriate gear for your chosen activity, such as sturdy shoes for hiking, a helmet for climbing, or a fishing license for angling.
- Stay hydrated, especially during strenuous activities, and be aware of the altitude.
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as mountain weather can be unpredictable.
Getting There
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Driving
Clear Creek Canyon is easily accessible from Denver via I-70 and US Highway 6. From Denver, take I-70 west to exit 262 for CO-93 N/Golden. Head North on CO-93 to US-6 W. Follow US-6 W into Clear Creek Canyon. Several trailheads and parking areas are located along US-6 within the canyon. Parking is free but can be limited, especially on weekends. Be aware of possible seasonal closures and construction delays.
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Public Transport
From Denver, you can take the Bustang West Line to Idaho Springs. From there, you can connect to the Clear Creek County Roundabout, a free public transportation service that operates within the county. You can also use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft to reach trailheads within the canyon from Idaho Springs, with an estimated cost of $21. Be sure to check the Roundabout schedule and ride-sharing availability in advance.
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Biking
Clear Creek Canyon can be accessed by bicycle via the Clear Creek Trail, a paved path that connects Golden to Tunnel 1 along US-6. From Denver, you can bike to Golden via the Clear Creek Greenway Trail and then continue west into the canyon. Be aware that US-6 can be busy with traffic, so exercise caution.
Discover more about Clear Creek Canyon
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Newsboy Statue
1.1 km
Discover the charm of Golden, Colorado with a visit to The Newsboy Statue, a historic monument celebrating the spirit of youthful entrepreneurship.
Downtown Golden
1.2 km
Explore the historic charm and natural beauty of Downtown Golden, a vibrant destination in Colorado perfect for tourists seeking adventure and culture.
Windy Saddle Park
2.0 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene trails of Windy Saddle Park in Golden, Colorado - a perfect outdoor escape for all ages.
Brickyard House
2.6 km
Explore the charm and history of the Brickyard House, a beautiful historical landmark in Golden, Colorado, rich with stories and stunning landscapes.
Boettcher Mansion-Lookout Mt
2.8 km
Discover the stunning Boettcher Mansion on Lookout Mountain, a historic venue with breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.
Brandy Duvall memorial cross
3.0 km
Explore the Brandy Duvall Memorial Cross in Golden, Colorado—a serene historical landmark honoring a beloved local figure amidst stunning natural beauty.
Mother Cabrini Shrine
5.1 km
Experience spiritual serenity and breathtaking mountain views at the Mother Cabrini Shrine, a cherished sanctuary in Golden, Colorado.
North Table Mountain
5.2 km
Discover North Table Mountain, a breathtaking peak in Colorado, offering stunning views and diverse hiking trails for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Arapahoe City Histoical Marker
5.4 km
Explore the Arapahoe City Historical Marker in Golden, Colorado, and immerse yourself in the rich history of early American settlers during the gold rush.
White Ranch Park
9.7 km
Explore the stunning natural landscapes and diverse wildlife at White Ranch Park, a premier outdoor destination in Golden, Colorado, perfect for hiking and picnicking.
Wheat Ridge Historic Park
9.8 km
Discover the rich history of Wheat Ridge at the historic park, a beautiful museum showcasing early settler life in Colorado.
Mount Falcon Park
12.4 km
Discover breathtaking vistas, historic trails, and outdoor adventure at Mount Falcon Park, a natural gem in Morrison, Colorado, perfect for every traveler.
West Trailhead
13.0 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and stunning vistas at West Trailhead, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Indian Hills, Colorado.
Walker Mansion Ruins
13.1 km
Explore the enchanting Walker Mansion Ruins in Morrison, Colorado, where history meets breathtaking natural beauty amidst serene landscapes.
Rocky Mountain Balloon Rides
14.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Colorado's Rocky Mountains from above with Rocky Mountain Balloon Rides, a must-visit tourist attraction.
Unmissable attractions to see
Clear Creek White Water Park
0.4 km
Experience thrilling rapids and refreshing waters at Clear Creek White Water Park, Golden's premier destination for kayaking, tubing, and outdoor fun.
Mines Museum of Earth Science
0.8 km
Explore Earth's treasures at the Mines Museum of Earth Science in Golden, Colorado. Discover gems, minerals, fossils, and more!
Golden History Museum
0.9 km
Explore Golden's rich heritage through engaging exhibits and historical artifacts at this free museum and park in the heart of Golden, Colorado.
Golden City Brewery
0.9 km
Golden City Brewery: Golden's original microbrewery, serving handcrafted beers, wines, and ciders in a relaxed, backyard setting since 1993.
Astor House
1.1 km
Step back in time at the Astor House in Golden, Colorado's oldest standing hotel, and discover the rich history of the Wild West.
Mountain Toad Brewing
1.1 km
Golden's community microbrewery, offering handcrafted beers in a restored machine shop with a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Golden Welcome Center
1.1 km
Your first stop in Golden, Colorado: maps, guides, local tips, and friendly faces to help you explore the gateway to the Rockies.
The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave
2.2 km
Explore the rich history of the Wild West at the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, where legends come to life amidst stunning Rocky Mountain views.
Lookout Mountain Park
2.2 km
Discover panoramic views and Western history at Lookout Mountain Park, home of Buffalo Bill's Museum and Grave, along the scenic Lariat Loop.
Lookout Mountain
2.2 km
Discover the majestic beauty of Lookout Mountain, where breathtaking views and rich history converge for an unforgettable Colorado experience.
Lookout Mountain Nature Center and Preserve
2.7 km
Explore nature trails, wildlife exhibits, and breathtaking views at Lookout Mountain Nature Center and Preserve near Golden, Colorado.
Mount Galbraith Park
2.9 km
Hiker's paradise near Golden, Colorado, offering stunning views and challenging trails in a historic open space.
North Table Mountain Park West Trailhead
3.4 km
Hike, bike, and climb amidst stunning geological formations and panoramic views at this iconic Golden, Colorado park.
Colorado Railroad Museum
4.1 km
Explore the rich history of railroads at the Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden, Colorado, featuring over 100 historic locomotives and interactive exhibits.
Barrels & Bottles Brewery at Camp George West
5.1 km
Discover the heart of Golden, Colorado, at Barrels & Bottles Brewery, where craft beer and delicious food await in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
duo Restaurant
18.7 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Duo Restaurant in Denver's Highland neighborhood—where fresh ingredients meet exceptional flavors.
Bar Dough
18.9 km
Discover the delightful fusion of traditional Italian cuisine and modern dining at Bar Dough in Denver's charming Highland neighborhood.
El Five
19.1 km
Discover Mediterranean-inspired tapas at El Five in Denver, where stunning skyline views meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Linger
19.1 km
Discover Linger: A unique dining destination blending global street food flavors with stunning views in Denver's Highland neighborhood.
Forest Room 5
19.1 km
Discover the perfect fusion of art and cuisine at Forest Room 5 in Denver's Highland neighborhood—where every meal is an experience.
Senor Bear
19.1 km
Experience authentic Latin American flavors at Senor Bear in Denver's vibrant Highland neighborhood.
Jacques
19.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Jacques in Denver's Highland neighborhood – where every dish tells a story.
Gaetano's
19.2 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Italy at Gaetano's in Denver’s Highland neighborhood - where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
The Bindery
19.5 km
Discover exquisite New American cuisine at The Bindery in Denver's Highland neighborhood—where every meal is an unforgettable experience.
Avanti Food & Beverage
19.5 km
Discover Denver's culinary diversity at Avanti Food & Beverage - where multiple cuisines meet in a lively atmosphere.
Root Down
19.6 km
Discover Root Down in Denver: A vibrant American restaurant offering farm-to-table dining with a focus on sustainability and flavor.
Coohills
19.7 km
Discover the essence of French cuisine at Coohills in Denver—where exquisite flavors meet elegant dining experiences.
Buckhorn Exchange
19.7 km
Discover Buckhorn Exchange in Denver - where history meets exquisite cuisine at Colorado's oldest steakhouse.
Wildflower
19.8 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at Wildflower in Denver's Highlands, where seasonal ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Citizen Rail
19.9 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine at Citizen Rail in Denver - where locally sourced ingredients meet vibrant culinary creativity.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jolly Goods
16.4 km
Explore Jolly Goods in Denver for unique gifts and clothing, showcasing local artisans and a variety of charming finds.
Ruby Jane Boutique - Denver Highlands
17.1 km
Explore Ruby Jane Boutique in Denver Highlands for unique women's fashion, stylish accessories, and charming home goods that reflect local flair.
Agape Grow
17.4 km
Explore Agape Grow, a charming antique store filled with unique vintage finds and captivating collectibles from yesteryears.
Mojave + Tejon Dry Goods
18.8 km
Explore Mojave + Tejon Dry Goods in Denver: A unique gift shop offering health products, home goods, and artisan jewelry for every taste.
Common Era
19.3 km
Discover the latest trends in women's fashion at Common Era, a boutique in Denver's Highland neighborhood that celebrates individuality and style.
Patterns & Pops
19.4 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Patterns & Pops in Denver's trendy Highland neighborhood, blending contemporary style with local charm.
Art Of Beaming
19.5 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local artistry at Art of Beaming, the heart of Denver's vibrant gift shopping scene.
apropos
19.6 km
Discover unique treasures at Apropos, a boutique in Denver's Highland neighborhood, showcasing local fashion, accessories, and home decor.
MCA Shop
19.7 km
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A Line Boutique
20.0 km
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5 Green Boxes
20.0 km
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milly rose designs
20.1 km
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Show Pony Vintage - LoDo
20.1 km
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Garage Sale Vintage - Denver
20.1 km
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Coco + Grace
20.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Squeeze
15.7 km
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Lady Jane
19.1 km
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Williams & Graham
19.1 km
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Golden Hour Wine Bar & Social Club
19.1 km
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Occidental
19.1 km
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Postino LoHi
19.1 km
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Recess Beer Garden
19.2 km
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The Nearby Bar
19.3 km
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The High Lonesome
19.7 km
Discover The High Lonesome, Denver's cozy whiskey bar in the Highland neighborhood, perfect for relaxing and enjoying a vast selection of spirits.
Highland Tavern
19.7 km
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Upstairs Circus LoDo
19.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of creativity and cocktails at Upstairs Circus LoDo, a unique arts and craft bar in the heart of Denver.
Ghost Donkey – Denver
20.0 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Denver at Ghost Donkey, a hidden bar offering unique cocktails and a cozy atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
The Wild
20.0 km
Discover The Wild, Denver's vibrant cocktail bar known for unique drinks, fine wines, and artisanal coffee in a chic, inviting atmosphere.
Terminal Bar
20.0 km
Discover Terminal Bar, a lively Denver hotspot offering craft beers and creative cocktails in a historic train depot setting.
Cruise Room
20.1 km
Discover the elegance of The Cruise Room in Denver, where Art Deco charm meets expertly crafted cocktails for an unforgettable lounge experience.
