Responsible Recreation on Clear Creek

A Note About This Season

You may notice Clear Creek looking a little different this year. Drought conditions across the region have reduced water levels in places, and the creek may appear calmer or more manageable than usual. Do not let that fool you. Low water does not mean safe water. Submerged rocks, uneven creek beds, and unexpected deep pools are present regardless of flow, and feet and limbs can become trapped between rocks in shallow conditions: one of the most dangerous hazards on any moving waterway. Treat Clear Creek with the same respect you would in any other year.

Before You Go: Know the Conditions

Clear Creek is not a lazy river. It can be swift, cold, and powerful, especially after rainfall. Water conditions, hazards, and obstacles can change without warning, and there is real inherent risk in any whitewater activity, including tubing. Check flow conditions and flag warnings before you head out.

Essential Tips for a Safe Visit

• Protect Our Water: Clear Creek is both a recreation area and a critical drinking water source. Pack out all trash and never pollute the creek.
• Use Designated Access Points: Enter and exit only at marked spots. Avoid disturbing creek banks to prevent erosion and protect the habitat.
• Leave No Trace: Dispose of all trash in proper receptacles. Skip hammocks, chairs, and anything else that damages vegetation along the banks. No glass, no alcohol, and no single-use plastics in the creek.
• Plan Ahead: Set a clear meeting point with your group in case you get separated. Know where you are going before you get in the water. Share the trail and be courteous to all.
• Secure Your Stuff: Tie down or leave valuables on shore. Loose items are frequently lost in the creek. 
• Wear the Right Safety Gear: Life jackets or PFDs (personal flotation devices) are strongly encouraged, especially for tubing or for weaker swimmers. Helmets are recommended for whitewater activities. Water shoes with sturdy soles protect against rocks. 
• Exit at the Right Spot: Tubers and kayakers must exit the water no later than Vanover Park. Do not continue past this point. A dam lies immediately beyond the Vanover Park takeout and poses an extreme danger. 
• Respect Wildlife and Conditions: Drought conditions make this especially important this year. Be mindful of the creek's ecosystem and avoid disturbing areas where water levels are already stressed. 

Make a Day of It in Golden

The creek is just the beginning. Golden is a small town packed with lots of things to see and do. Fuel up before or after your float at one of the locally owned restaurants, or browse the shops in our historic downtown. Hikers and mountain bikers will find miles of trails just minutes from downtown, from the mesa tops of North and South Table Mountain to the forested climbs of Apex Park, White Ranch, and Mount Galbraith Park. History lovers can explore the Golden History Museum and Park and the Mines Museum of Earth Science, or head up Lookout Mountain to the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave for sweeping views and the legendary story of the man who defined the Wild West. However you spend your day, the free Ore Cart shuttle makes it easy to get around town without a car. 

This summer, the new free Westracks shuttle connects Golden's RTD station to Red Rocks, Dinosaur Ridge, Matthews/Winters Park, Downtown Morrison, and the Morrison Natural History Museum — running every 15 minutes from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends and holidays, Memorial Day through Labor Day. Bikes and leashed dogs welcome.

We're Here to Help

Look for Creek Ambassadors on Fridays and weekends throughout the summer season. These friendly City of Golden staff members are stationed at key locations, including the Clear Creek Parking Lot, Vanover Park, near the ball fields, and at the west end of the Golden RV Park. They can help with directions, access points, and tips for making the most of your day. Inflation stations and Spanish language services are available at select ambassador sites.

Park rules are actively enforced throughout the season. Violations such as unleashed dogs, alcohol use, and parking infractions may result in tickets. Flaggers are stationed at key crossings like Ford Street to assist with pedestrian safety during busy periods.

To report trail or park concerns or share feedback about your experience, call 303-384-8074 or email creek@cityofgolden.net. For non-emergency issues, contact the Golden Police Department at 303-980-7300. For emergencies, dial 911.

Get Involved

Want to give back to the creek that makes Golden special? Join the Clear Creek Corridor Cleanup, where volunteers help keep trails, parks, and waterways beautiful every Monday morning from June through mid-September. Register and learn more at bit.ly/3P6meD7.

Water Sport Guides & Outfitters