Clear Creek Waterwheel
Experience the thrill of tubing down Clear Creek or enjoy a peaceful stroll along its scenic banks in Golden, Colorado.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak tubing and vibrant atmosphere
Clear Creek Waterwheel
Best Time
Peak tubing and vibrant atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the thrill of tubing down Clear Creek or enjoy a peaceful stroll along its scenic banks in Golden, Colorado.
"The perfect way to spend a day on a Colorado river!"
Bring your own tube! :inflatable_tube:
Buying your own tube can be comparable in price to renting and gives you more flexibility.
Safety first! 🛡️
Life jackets and helmets are recommended, especially for tubing, as waters can be rough.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 646 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Clear Creek Tubing
Clear Creek
Ride the rapids and enjoy a refreshing float down the mountain-fed river. A quintessential Colorado summer adventure!
Waterwheel
Downtown Golden
A historic landmark offering a picturesque backdrop and a glimpse into the area's past.
Riverside Walking Paths
Along Clear Creek
Stroll or bike along well-maintained paths, enjoying the scenery, street musicians, and lively atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tubing Season & Safety
Getting There & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring your own tube! :inflatable_tube:
Buying your own tube can be comparable in price to renting and gives you more flexibility.
Safety first! 🛡️
Life jackets and helmets are recommended, especially for tubing, as waters can be rough.
Explore the trails :hiking_boot:
Enjoy easy, scenic hikes along the creek, perfect for families and dog walkers.
Hydrate and protect :sun_with_face:
Bring sunscreen and hats, as some trail areas are exposed. Stay hydrated!
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring your own tube! :inflatable_tube:
Buying your own tube can be comparable in price to renting and gives you more flexibility.
Safety first! 🛡️
Life jackets and helmets are recommended, especially for tubing, as waters can be rough.
Explore the trails :hiking_boot:
Enjoy easy, scenic hikes along the creek, perfect for families and dog walkers.
Hydrate and protect :sun_with_face:
Bring sunscreen and hats, as some trail areas are exposed. Stay hydrated!
Check water levels :droplet:
Ensure water levels are good for tubing before planning your trip.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Clear Creek for its tubing opportunities and scenic riverside paths, calling it a perfect way to spend a Colorado summer day. The atmosphere is lively with street musicians and happy tubers, while the well-maintained trails offer a relaxing escape. Some note that parking can be challenging and advise on safety precautions for tubing.
"One of the best experiences with tubing. It has become a Saturday ritual for me and my husband to go tubing here every week of July and planning for August as well as long as the water level is good. There are many restrooms around the place and picnic area."
Swathi Satish Rao
"Seems quite fun while I didn't jump in the river just walking along the river is quite relaxing and many things going on from street musicians to simply relaxing with sound of water, breeze and nature besides all the laughter going on from adults to kids.
It was a nice walk, I observed some murals, some park rangers patrolling, a library, some historical buildings, a musician and many practicing or perfecting their paddle boarding skills. It was an enjoyable walk along both sides, there's slides for kids to get down instead of using the stairs.
I spoke to someone and they said would definitely make sense to simply buy your tube if possible as the prices would be comparable.just FYI."
Fiestas303
"The perfect way to spend a day on a Colorado river! There are many entry points, so you can choose the length of your trip. People from the ages of 8 on up were tubing and paddle boarding while we were there. The walking path along the river is new and very well maintained. There are also well placed rocks, benches, and an amphitheater for you to sit while you watch others tube. There is a sign stating that there is a strictly enforced no alcohol policy and we only saw one group with beers towards sunset.
This would be a great activity for any group from college friends to a family. Everyone was being safe and respectful of the space."
Abigail Kruger
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Clear Creek Waterwheel is located in Golden, Colorado. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors also find it a convenient day trip from Denver, approximately 30 minutes away.
Yes, parking is available, but it can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak tubing season. Arriving early is recommended. Some areas may have paid parking.
While specific public transport routes might vary, Golden is accessible via regional bus services from Denver. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Absolutely! Clear Creek in Golden is a popular day trip destination from Denver, often taking around 30 minutes to drive.
There are multiple entry points along the creek. You may need to walk a short distance on the riverside trails to find a safe and suitable spot to enter the water.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, accessing the park and walking along the creek is free. However, if you plan to rent tubes or participate in specific activities, there may be associated costs. Parking might also incur a fee.
Access to Clear Creek Canyon Park itself is typically free. However, some specific areas or activities within the park might have associated fees, such as parking or rental services.
The park is generally open from dawn to dusk. Specific facilities like restrooms may have their own hours. Tubing is best enjoyed during daylight hours.
Yes, bringing your own tubes is encouraged! Many visitors find it more cost-effective than renting.
The act of tubing in the creek itself is free. Costs are usually associated with tube rentals or parking.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions are tubing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and enjoying the scenic walking paths. There are also playgrounds and picnic areas.
While many families enjoy tubing, it's essential to be cautious. Renting companies often require life jackets and helmets, and Reddit users advise considering these for safety due to potentially rough waters.
Yes, there are numerous restrooms and picnic areas located throughout the park, making it convenient for a full day of enjoyment.
Clear Creek Canyon Park is generally dog-friendly, but always check local leash laws and regulations. Some trails are specifically noted as dog-friendly.
The Clear Creek Waterwheel is a historic landmark in Golden, offering a picturesque spot and a connection to the area's industrial past.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Downtown Golden, located near the Clear Creek Waterwheel, offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and breweries. You can also pack a picnic to enjoy in the park's designated areas.
Absolutely! There are many picnic benches and areas available along the creek, perfect for enjoying a meal amidst nature.
While not always guaranteed, you might find occasional food vendors, especially during peak season or events. It's best to come prepared with your own food or plan to visit nearby eateries.
There is a strictly enforced no-alcohol policy in the park. Visitors are advised to respect this rule.
Golden boasts a diverse culinary scene, from casual pubs and breweries to more upscale dining. You'll find options to suit various tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
The Waterwheel itself is a classic photo opportunity. The scenic riverbanks, bridges, and the surrounding canyon offer numerous picturesque locations.
Yes, the clear waters, surrounding mountains, and diverse plant life make it a great spot for nature photography, especially along the hiking trails. +1
While people are enjoying themselves, it's always respectful to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require permits. Always check park regulations.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the scenery. Midday can be bright but still offers good opportunities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit