Golden was originally named Golden City after an early settler and miner, Tom Golden. Golden City was initially meant to be one of Colorado’s many mining towns, but instead became a supply center and convenient transportation hub for wagons to go to and from the Rocky Mountains. It was in 1859 that early settlers like Tom Golden first discovered gold in Clear Creek – the river that runs through the heart of the town.
Golden is still thriving and is now home to local mines, quarries, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, a whitewater kayak park, and the famous Coors Brewery. It attracts visitors for its quaint downtown and proximity to the mountains. The Golden area and its location in Colorado’s foothills offers access to hiking, biking, whitewater rafting, and kayaking opportunities.
Whitewater Rafting Clear Creek Near Golden, Colorado
Clear Creek is a popular destination throughout the summer for whitewater rafting enthusiasts and those looking for a day getaway from the city. Because it is only about 20-30 minutes from Denver, you can get out on the water and be back in town for your dinner reservation in the evening. Clear Creek offers multiple classes of rapids for rafters of levels near Idaho Springs, a historic town with both outdoor activities and dining opportunities. Read more about Idaho Springs activities and restaurants.
Rapid Classes on Clear Creek
Class III Rapids – Gold Rush
If your group is on the hunt for a shorter, family-friendly excursion, the Gold Rush 1/3 day trip on Clear Creek’s Class III rapids offers splashy rapids perfect for children 6 and up. Cruise through the historic town of Idaho Springs on this section, and spot some former mining sites along the way.
Class IV Rapids – Upper Clear Creek
Starting the furthest west and upstream, the Class IV stretch of Upper Clear Creek provides steep and continuous rapids to navigate through for nearly 8 miles on a half day rafting trip. For ages 15 and older, this trip and section of Clear Creek is perfect for those looking to up the adrenaline.
Class V Rapids – Lower Canyon
Fit for the daredevils, this section of Clear Creek covered in our half day Lower Canyon trip provides not only some jaw dropping scenery within a beautiful canyon but also some intense Class V rapids that drop 150 feet per mile over the course of 10 miles.
Tubing Clear Creek in Golden, Colorado
Another go-to summer activity with visitors and locals is tubing the Clear Creek through the town of Golden, Colorado and the Clear Creek Whitewater Park. This section of whitewater is downstream from the higher class rapids and a hotspot for those trying to cool off during the dog days of summer. You can bring your own tube or rent one from one of the many shops in the town. Check out Golden River Sports, and don’t forget to wear a PFD and helmet for safety!
Whitewater Kayaking Clear Creek Near Golden, Colorado
For the more experienced rafting enthusiasts, venturing out in a kayak near Golden can be a fun solo or group activity. Kayakers can take on all classes of rapids on Clear Creek through Idaho Springs, as well as Coors Falls – a nearly 10 foot drop waterfall upstream just west of Empire.
If you’re sticking close to the front range and want to take the playboat out, join the tubers at the Clear Creek Whitewater Park. This area hosts fun competitions and activities throughout the summer every year. Test your skills in front of a crowd in downtown Golden! Read more about whitewater kayaking near Golden.
More Adventures Near Golden
At our outpost in Idaho Springs, visitors can also take on a zipline or Via Ferrata experience, or combine either of these mountain activities with a whitewater rafting trip in a multi-adventure package. These unique trips allow you to experience Colorado’s foothills from a different perspective, as you climb high into the mountainside.
With plenty of adventure options, as well as historical opportunities, restaurants, and breweries, we’re sure your you will have plenty to explore during your time in Golden. View all of our Colorado adventure trips.
