EXPLORE Clear Creek County

All Aboard: The Georgetown Loop Railroad® was one of Colorado’s first visitor attractions that was completed in 1884. This spectacular stretch of three-foot narrow gauge railroad was considered an engineering marvel for its time. Today, adults and children of all ages are able to enjoy train rides aboard a diesel or steam powered locomotive. There are also special event trains, two optional silver mine tours, an opportunity to pan for gold, and meet the resident burros!

Ride the Rapids: Clear Creek is the 2nd most rafted river in Colorado, and for good reason. With more rapids per mile than any other river in Colorado, Clear Creek offers both beginner rapids and world class rafting just outside of Denver. Also, be sure to check out the Lawson White Water Park for recreational canoing, kayaking, and splashing fun!

Take a Tour: Colorado’s gold rush began in Idaho Springs in 1859 when George Andrew Jackson discovered gold at the confluence of Chicago Creek and Clear Creek. Soon after the discovery 50,000 miners flocked to the County in search of fortune and the population skyrocketed. Gold still lures visitors to Clear Creek County and you too can take a walk back in time to learn about the mining lifestyle that defined our County, take a gold or silver mine tour, and try your hand at panning for gold!

Be sure to check out our interactive map for a list of museums and landmarks to visit and learn more about the Colorado Gold Rush and silver mining boom! www.VisitClearCreek.com/EXPLORE

Touch the Clouds: Our County is home to four 14,000’ peaks to challenge your lungs and legs. However if you are looking to stay off the beaten path then be sure to check out our 13,000 foot peaks such as Square Top Mountain which is easily accessible from Guanella Pass. Additionally, 35 miles of the Continental Divide Trail makes its way through the County offering a primitive, adventurous route. Best times to explore are weekdays and as early in the day as possible as weekend usage is often very heavy.

Feel the Wind: Take a bird’s eye view of the County and feel the crisp mountain air from high above one of our cliff-side or tower zip line attractions!

Explore the Terrain: As Denver’s gateway to the Rocky Mountains, Clear Creek County offers endless opportunities to explore the Roosevelt and Arapaho National Forests. Drive one of our two Scenic Byways: Guanella Pass Scenic Byway or Mount Evans Scenic Byway. Or, get off the paved roads and have some fun on an ATV tour or 4-wheel drive trail. There are also endless hiking, biking, and scenic trails throughout our open lands. Camp for a night under the stars while you get in touch with nature, and don’t forget your fishing pole while you keep an eye out for wildlife too!

Relax and Unwind: Soak your cares away in our historic hot springs, enjoy a day at the spa, sip suds at our local breweries, or simply spend the day visiting our unique shops and finish by enjoying one of our many delicious dining experiences. Don’t forget Clear Creek County has boutique lodging and cozy accommodations for weekend getaways or extended trips!

No matter what you decide, we hope that Clear Creek County will be part of your wonderful memories for years to come! ~ See you soon!

Empire

Argo Mill and Tunnel Georgetown Loop Railroad

Liquid Descent

Mount Evans