Clear Creek Canyon Park, Gateway Trailhead — Attraction in Golden

Clear Creek Canyon Park Trailhead is an easily overlooked gem. I can’t say how many times I’ve driven by this trailhead on the way to others and never given it a thought. This gateway to multiple trail opportunities is definitely worth stopping for.

I arrived on a Thursday morning around 9:30 to find plenty of parking. There are clean restrooms off the parking lot.

Part of my reluctance to check this trailhead out was its proximity to Route 6. I was concerned about traffic noise but should not have worried. The trailhead starts with a sturdy metal staircase down to the Peaks to Plains Trail (P2P). Someday this trail will span 65 miles connecting the South Platte Trail in Denver to the Loveland Pass Summit for a total elevation gain of 6,720 feet.

This trailhead gives you access to lots of activities; paved walking trails, biking, hiking trails, fishing and rock climbing are at the top of the list. You can leisurely stroll along Clear Creek on paved trails perfect for kids and strollers or get ambitious and make your way up to the Welch Ditch Trail and the base of many rock climbing routes.

Jefferson County Parks also hosts many activities throughout the year that are worth checking out.

Don’t be dissuaded from stopping here thinking you have to drive further into the mountains to peacefully commune with nature. You can spend an hour or a...

The Peaks to Plains and Welch Ditch Loop near Golden offered a lovely hike this past Saturday, April 26th, with plenty of parking. We began our journey on the paved section of the trail and opted for a return via the fascinating Flume Trail. This elevated wooden structure, the Welch Ditch, provided a unique perspective with the relaxing sound of passing water accompanying our walk. This historical feature offers a tangible connection to the area's past. Clear Creek also flows alongside the loop, adding its own soothing sounds and natural beauty to the overall experience. The option to experience both the paved trail and the Flume Trail makes this loop a worthwhile moderate hike with varied scenery and...

Parked my Camper at Clear Creek for an Extended Period of Time. Fantastic Walkways and Views. Golden has Entertainment and Good Restaurants. Denver is not far either. Great Memories of Christmas in Golden, Snow covered Bridges and Trees, all the Christmas Lights, the Candle Walk. Taking the MX-5 up Lookout Mountain, Pretty good food at the top. Lots to see and do nearby. I regret missing Clive Cussler's, ahem, I mean Dirk Pitt's...