Summer in Golden

Summer is peak season in Golden. The patios fill up, Clear Creek runs with kayakers and tubers, and the days are long enough to fit in a hike, brewery visit, and sunset dinner. It's also the busiest time - expect crowds on weekends, especially on the Coors tour and downtown.

Water Activities

Tubing Clear Creek

Tubing season runs roughly late June through August when creek flows drop to safe levels. Rent a tube from local outfitters, float the mellow section downstream from downtown, and cool off from the summer heat. The water is always cold - it comes straight from snowmelt - which feels perfect on a 90-degree day.

Watching Kayakers

Even if you're not paddling, watching skilled kayakers surf the whitewater park is great summer entertainment. Grab a drink at The Mill and watch from the patio as paddlers practice rolls and tricks. Peak flows in May-June bring the most action; by late summer flows are mellower but paddlers are still out.

Creek Walking

The Clear Creek Trail is at its best in summer - full of walkers, joggers, families, and dogs. The creek itself invites wading in calm spots (be careful - current can be strong). It's the heart of Golden's summer social scene.

Hiking

Summer hiking in Golden requires strategy:

Go early: Start by 7-8am to beat the heat and afternoon thunderstorms. Trails like North Table Mountain bake in afternoon sun. Morning hiking means cooler temperatures, better parking, and safer weather.

Watch for storms: Afternoon thunderstorms are common from mid-June through August. Check the forecast and plan to be off exposed trails by early afternoon.

Best summer hikes:

• North Table Mountain - go early, bring water
• Lookout Mountain - some shade, wildlife viewing
• Golden Gate Canyon - higher elevation means cooler temps

Patios and Outdoor Dining

Summer is patio season in Golden. The Golden Mill's creek-side deck, Golden City Brewery's backyard, and tables along Washington Avenue fill with people enjoying the long evenings.

Peak patio times: Late afternoon through sunset. Arrive early for the best spots, especially at The Mill on weekends.

Summer evenings: Golden is at its best when the afternoon storms clear and the light turns golden. Temperature drops into the comfortable 70s. Perfect for lingering over drinks.

Biking

Summer brings excellent biking conditions:

• Road cyclists tackle the Lookout Mountain climb in the cool morning
• Mountain bikers hit Apex and White Ranch trails
• Casual riders cruise the Clear Creek Trail

Same rules as hiking apply - beat the heat and storms by riding early.

Summer Events

Golden Games: The annual whitewater festival in June features kayak competitions on Clear Creek. Great spectator event with top paddlers showing off.

Concerts and events: Check local calendars for outdoor concerts, farmers markets, and community events throughout summer.

Fourth of July: Golden hosts community celebrations. Crowds are heavy but the atmosphere is festive.

Summer Tips

Hydrate: Colorado is dry and the altitude makes dehydration sneak up on you. Drink more water than you think you need.

Sun protection: The Colorado sun is intense, especially at Golden's 5,700+ foot elevation. Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses.

Layers for evening: Temperatures can drop 20+ degrees after sunset. A light jacket is useful for evening patio sitting.

Book ahead: Coors tours and hotels fill up on summer weekends. Reserve in advance.