Clear Creek Greenway
A vibrant greenway offering diverse outdoor adventures, from scenic hikes and bike rides to unique rockhounding and river floating.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful trails
Clear Creek Greenway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful trails
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant greenway offering diverse outdoor adventures, from scenic hikes and bike rides to unique rockhounding and river floating.
"Explore diverse trails, find rare gems, or float the rapids – Clear Creek Greenway has it all!"
🪨 Rockhounding Gear
Bring tools for searching and collecting rocks. Always check local regulations for collecting permits and limits.
⛸️ Smooth Skating Paths
The paved sections are great for skating. Enjoy the ride from Youngfield to Golden!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rockhounding Adventures
Upper sections of Clear Creek
Search for rare green uvarovite garnets and other geological treasures. A unique outdoor pursuit for the curious explorer.
Scenic Trail Skating
Youngfield to downtown Golden
Glide along the paved paths, enjoying urban and natural landscapes. A refreshing way to experience the greenway.
Water Wheel Views
Idaho Springs
Visit the historic Charlie Taylor Water Wheel, a charming landmark along the trail. A picturesque stop for photos.
Dog-Friendly Exploration
Redding, CA
Leash up your furry friend for an adventure! Many sections are perfect for dogs to explore and enjoy the outdoors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Etiquette & Safety
Best Access Points
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🪨 Rockhounding Gear
Bring tools for searching and collecting rocks. Always check local regulations for collecting permits and limits.
⛸️ Smooth Skating Paths
The paved sections are great for skating. Enjoy the ride from Youngfield to Golden!
🏞️ Scenic Photo Ops
Capture the beauty of the trail, especially near landmarks like the Charlie Taylor Water Wheel.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Adventures
Many trails welcome dogs. Ensure your pup is leashed and enjoys the expedition!
Tips
from all over the internet
🪨 Rockhounding Gear
Bring tools for searching and collecting rocks. Always check local regulations for collecting permits and limits.
⛸️ Smooth Skating Paths
The paved sections are great for skating. Enjoy the ride from Youngfield to Golden!
🏞️ Scenic Photo Ops
Capture the beauty of the trail, especially near landmarks like the Charlie Taylor Water Wheel.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Adventures
Many trails welcome dogs. Ensure your pup is leashed and enjoys the expedition!
🍺 Local Brews
Some areas near the greenway offer local breweries with themed drinks.
📍 Colorado Trail Guide
Explore various Colorado trails, including Clear Creek and Mary Carter Greenway.
🛶 River Floating
Upper sections can be intense; lower sections offer a more relaxed float. Check local conditions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Clear Creek Greenway for its diverse recreational opportunities, from scenic hikes and bike rides to unique activities like rockhounding and river floating. The accessibility from Denver and the natural beauty are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some users note that parking can be challenging during peak times and that certain river sections require caution.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access points vary by location. Popular trailheads include those in Golden, Idaho Springs, and Redding, CA. Research specific trailheads based on your intended activity.
Parking is available at many trailheads, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider alternative transportation.
Depending on the specific section, public transportation may be an option. Check local transit schedules for routes serving areas near the greenway.
Yes, many sections of the Clear Creek Greenway are accessible from Denver, particularly those in Golden and along the I-70 corridor.
Access to rockhounding areas often requires driving to specific trailheads or pull-offs along the creek. Research local guides for precise locations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, the Clear Creek Greenway is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. However, some adjacent recreational areas or parking lots might have fees.
Permits may be required for collecting minerals, especially in certain areas or for commercial purposes. Always check with local authorities or park services.
Most sections of the greenway are open from dawn to dusk. However, it's best to check local park regulations for specific hours of operation.
While not always advertised, some local outfitters may offer guided hikes or adventure tours that include parts of the greenway.
This appears to be a local event celebrating the greenway, often featuring community activities and special promotions, like themed beers at local breweries.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking, biking, skating, rockhounding, fishing, and simply enjoying the scenic views. Some sections are also popular for dog walking.
Yes, many sections offer relatively flat and paved paths that are great for families with strollers and young children.
Wildlife sightings can include various birds, small mammals, and depending on the area, deer or other larger animals. Always observe from a distance.
Restroom availability varies by section. Larger parks and popular access points are more likely to have facilities.
Look for scenic overlooks, the Charlie Taylor Water Wheel, and the natural beauty of the creek and surrounding landscapes.
🎫 🛶 River Activities
Yes, Clear Creek is floatable in certain sections, particularly between bridges like Placer Bridge and Clear Creek Road Bridge. The upper parts can be intense.
Rafts and tubes can be used. It's advisable to research popular drop-off and pick-up spots and be aware of water levels and rapids.
The upper sections can have strong rapids. Always assess water conditions, wear a life jacket, and be aware of your surroundings.
Rental options might be available from local outfitters in towns along Clear Creek, such as Idaho Springs or Golden.
Certain sections of Clear Creek are popular for kayaking, offering rapids and challenging runs for experienced paddlers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a bit more adventure, consider shorter, well-marked hiking trails. Always pack plenty of snacks and water, and keep an eye on children near the creek. The historic Charlie Taylor Water Wheel in Idaho Springs is a fun and educational stop for younger visitors.
💰 Budget Travelers
Bring your own picnic to enjoy along the trail, saving money on dining out. If you're interested in rockhounding, the only cost is your time and any basic equipment you might need. For floating, consider bringing your own tubes or rafts if possible to avoid rental fees.
🐶 Dog Owners
Choose trails that offer shade and water access, especially during warmer months. The variety of terrain means you can find routes suitable for dogs of all energy levels, from leisurely strolls to more vigorous hikes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Rockhounding for Green Garnets
Safety and legality are paramount when rockhounding. Ensure you are on public land accessible for collecting and understand any permit requirements. The thrill of discovering a unique gemstone like a green garnet makes the effort worthwhile for many visitors.
Exploring the Greenway by Bike or Skates
These paved paths are generally well-maintained and offer a smooth ride. They are suitable for various skill levels, from casual cyclists to more experienced skaters. Remember to be courteous to other trail users, especially pedestrians, and follow any posted speed limits or trail rules.
Floating Clear Creek: A Local's Guide
It's crucial to understand the creek's conditions. Water levels and speed can vary significantly, and what might be a gentle float one day could be a challenging run the next. Locals advise researching popular drop-off and pick-up points and always prioritizing safety by wearing life jackets and being aware of potential hazards. Outfitters in nearby towns may offer rentals and shuttle services for a more convenient experience.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit