Golden Day Trip from Denver

Golden is the easiest mountain-adjacent day trip from Denver. In 20 minutes you go from skyscrapers to a small town backed by foothills and framed by views of the Continental Divide. It's close enough for a half-day outing yet has enough to fill a full day if you want.

The town combines the free Coors Brewery tour, a charming downtown with restaurants and shops, and quick access to hiking and outdoor activities. You get a taste of Colorado mountain life without the drive to the ski resorts.

Getting There

By car: Take 6th Avenue (US-6) west from Denver. It's a straight shot to Golden - about 15 miles and 20-30 minutes without traffic. Rush hour can add time, especially heading back to Denver in the afternoon.

Alternative route: I-70 west to the Golden/Morrison exit, then north on CO-93. Slightly longer but may be faster during rush hour.

By bus: RTD buses connect Denver to Golden. Route 16 runs from Union Station. The ride takes 30-45 minutes depending on stops.

By bike: The Clear Creek Trail runs from Denver's Confluence Park to Golden - about 15 miles of mostly flat, paved path. A great way to arrive if you're up for it.

Half-Day Itinerary (3-4 hours)

If you have a morning or afternoon:

1. Coors Brewery Tour (1-1.5 hours): Start with the free tour. Book online in advance, especially for weekends. Tour takes 30-45 minutes plus tasting time.
2. Walk to downtown (10 minutes): Head to Washington Avenue for lunch
3. Lunch and stroll (1-1.5 hours): Eat at one of the downtown restaurants, walk the main street, take photos at the famous arch
4. Clear Creek (30 minutes): Walk along the creek trail, watch kayakers if it's summer

Full-Day Itinerary (6-8 hours)

For a complete Golden experience:

1. Morning hike (2-3 hours): Start early with a hike up North Table Mountain or Lookout Mountain before it gets hot
2. Coors Brewery (1-1.5 hours): Cool off with the free tour and complimentary samples
3. Lunch downtown (1 hour): Plenty of options along Washington Avenue
4. Explore downtown (1-2 hours): Browse shops, visit the History Museum or School of Mines geology museum
5. Afternoon drinks (1-2 hours): Hit a craft brewery patio or The Golden Mill for creek-side drinks
6. Optional: Drive up to Buffalo Bill's grave for sunset views

Outdoor-Focused Day

If you're here primarily for outdoor activities:

1. Morning: Hike North Table Mountain (2-3 hours) or drive to Golden Gate Canyon State Park (allow 4+ hours)
2. Midday: Tube Clear Creek if it's summer and flows are right
3. Afternoon: Grab lunch at The Mill and watch kayakers from the patio
4. Late afternoon: Bike the Clear Creek Trail back toward Denver, or drive to Lookout Mountain for wildlife viewing

Day Trip Tips

Reserve the Coors tour: Weekend slots fill up. Book at least a few days ahead.

Avoid rush hour: Heading back to Denver between 4-6pm can be slow on 6th Avenue. Either leave earlier or plan to stay for dinner.

Bring layers: Even in summer, mornings can be cool and afternoon storms pop up. Golden is slightly higher elevation than Denver.

Wear walking shoes: Downtown is easily walkable, but you'll want comfortable shoes if you're hiking too.

Cash isn't necessary: Almost everywhere accepts cards, but a few meters and small vendors may prefer cash.