Clear Creek Trail

Clear Creek Trail is Golden's outdoor living room. This paved multi-use path follows Clear Creek through the heart of town, connecting parks, businesses, and neighborhoods. It's where locals walk their dogs, families push strollers, cyclists cruise, and everyone gathers to watch kayakers navigate the whitewater course in downtown.

The creek itself is the star. Coming straight from the mountains, Clear Creek runs fast and cold through Golden before continuing to join the South Platte in Denver. In late spring and early summer when snowmelt swells the flow, the whitewater section through downtown becomes a magnet for skilled paddlers.

Trail Route and Sections

The trail runs east-west through Golden, roughly paralleling the creek. Within town, you can walk from Lions Park on the west side through downtown to the eastern edge near Heritage Square - about 3 miles one way.

Downtown Section: The most scenic and social stretch runs behind Washington Avenue through the commercial district. You'll pass restaurants, breweries, and shops. Benches and viewing areas overlook the kayak park. This section gets crowded on nice days but that's part of the appeal.

Western Section: West of downtown, the trail continues toward Lions Park and eventually connects to paths heading up Clear Creek Canyon. This section is quieter with more natural surroundings.

Eastern Section: East of downtown, the trail passes near the Coors Brewery and continues toward the edge of town. It eventually connects to the regional Clear Creek Trail that runs all the way to Denver's Confluence Park.

What to Do

Walking and jogging: The paved surface is smooth and well-maintained. You can do a short downtown stroll or a longer out-and-back of several miles.

Biking: Popular with cyclists of all types. The path connects to longer routes heading toward Denver or up into the mountains. Be courteous to pedestrians - the downtown section gets busy.

Wildlife watching: Ducks, geese, and occasional herons hang out along the creek. In the quieter sections you might spot deer in early morning.

Kayaker watching: The best spectator sport in Golden. From spring through fall, skilled kayakers practice on the whitewater features in the downtown section. Watching them surf the standing waves or roll through the rapids is mesmerizing.

Fishing: The creek is stocked with trout. A Colorado fishing license is required. Best fishing is in the quieter stretches away from downtown.

Access Points

Lions Park: Western end of town with parking, restrooms, and picnic areas. Good starting point for longer walks.

Downtown: Multiple access points along Washington Avenue and 10th Street. Street parking and paid lots nearby.

Parfet Park: Near the Colorado School of Mines campus with easy trail access.

Vanover Park: Eastern side of town with parking and creek access.

Tips for Your Visit

Peak times: The downtown section is busiest on weekend afternoons, especially in summer. Visit early morning or on weekdays for a quieter experience.

Dogs: Welcome on leash. Many sections have waste bag stations. Keep dogs out of the creek during high water - the current can be dangerous.

Weather: The trail is exposed - bring sun protection in summer and layers in shoulder seasons. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer; the trail can flood during heavy rain.

Winter: The trail is usually cleared of snow, though icy patches can develop. Beautiful on sunny winter days.