Discover Golden, Colorado
Golden, Colorado sits at the base of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, just west of Denver in Jefferson County. Nestled along Clear Creek, it offers a blend of mountain charm and historic grit. With an elevation of approximately 5,675 to 5,784 feet above sea level, Golden is slightly higher than Denver but lower than nearby mountain towns like Evergreen. Known for its walkable downtown, the city is home to the Colorado School of Mines, Coors Brewery, and the National Renewable Energy Lab. Popular spots include Lookout Mountain, Clear Creek Trail, and the iconic “Welcome to Golden” arch — all steeped in the legacy of the 1859 gold rush and Colorado’s early territorial history.
🚗 Getting There
Getting to Golden offers several options, but most travelers begin their journey by landing at Denver International Airport (DEN). From there, visitors can rent a car, hop on a shuttle, or take the RTD light rail to reach Golden in about 45 minutes. The drive west along I-70 and US-6 offers scenic views of the foothills and Clear Creek Canyon. Once in town, Golden’s compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot, with trails, breweries, and historic sites all within walking distance of downtown.
🌟 My Personal Observation
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Downtown Golden: No matter the season, this modern Old West town has its own unique lifestyle.
One of my favorite things to do here is walk the Clear Creek Trail — a paved path that runs alongside the river.
Sometimes you’ll see people tubing down the water, kayaking, or simply soaking their feet in the current.
The trail is especially stunning in the fall, with vibrant foliage, and during winter, the Christmas lights transform
it into a magical display. The walk around town, the inviting aroma from local restaurants, and the welcoming atmosphere
make Golden a truly worthwhile visit.
📍 Clear Creek Trail
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Lookout Mountain: This mountain holds special historical value.
The grave of Buffalo Bill (William Frederick Cody) is located along a paved trail near the summit.
There’s a museum and a gift shop — though last time I visited, the shop was closed for renovations.
From this mountain, you can admire sweeping views of downtown Golden, the surrounding foothills, and even the
distant plains. One of the most popular sports here is cycling — you’ll often see people riding uphill or
flying downhill. You might also catch sight of BASE jumpers and paragliders launching from the cliffs, adding
a thrill to the already dramatic landscape.
📍 Lookout Mountain
📍 Buffalo Bill’s Grave
🏔️ Hidden Gems in Golden
- Motorcycle Friendly: Golden is a favorite launch point for riders exploring Colorado’s canyon roads and mountain passes. One of the most scenic loops starts right in downtown Golden — near the iconic Coors Brewery — and heads west through Clear Creek Canyon via US-6. Riders twist through tunnels and river curves before connecting to CO-74 toward Evergreen, passing Bear Creek Lake and descending into Morrison. This loop offers stunning views, smooth pavement, and plenty of places to stop for photos or a bite. Coors Brewery itself is a great place to kick off the ride — with parking, history, and a cold reward waiting at the end.
- North Table and South Table: These two flat-topped mesas rise dramatically above Golden and offer some of the best hiking and mountain biking in the area. North Table Mountain features over 15 miles of trails, including the Tilting Mesa Loop, Golden Cliffs Trail, and the panoramic North Table Outer Rim — perfect for moderate hikes or technical bike rides. South Table Mountain is slightly quieter but equally scenic, with trails like Castle Rock Trail and the scenic climb to the mesa’s summit. Both mesas are accessible year-round, with spring wildflowers and fall colors adding seasonal magic. Cyclists often use these mesas as training grounds, and hikers love the wildlife sightings — from prairie dogs to soaring hawks.
- Other Trails to Explore: Golden is surrounded by trailheads that cater to every level of adventure. Clear Creek Trail offers a gentle riverside walk through downtown, while Lookout Mountain Trail provides elevation and epic views. Apex Park and Chimney Gulch Trail are favorites for mountain bikers seeking switchbacks and forested climbs. For a more rugged experience, Windy Saddle and Mount Galbraith trails offer solitude and steep terrain. Whether you're hiking, biking, or just soaking in the scenery, Golden’s trail network is a true outdoor playground.
🛏️ Places to Stay in Golden
Golden offers year-round lodging options that blend comfort, history, and mountain charm. Whether you're visiting for outdoor adventures, Red Rocks concerts, or a quiet weekend getaway, these top-rated hotels offer something for every traveler.
- The Golden Hotel, Ascend Collection: Located along Clear Creek in downtown Golden, this boutique hotel offers walkable access to shops, restaurants, and trails. Guests love the cozy rooms, on-site restaurant, and welcoming staff. It’s a favorite for those seeking a blend of luxury and local flavor.
- Table Mountain Inn: This Southwestern-style hotel sits at the base of the Rockies and offers spacious rooms, a lively restaurant, and easy access to Coors Brewery and downtown attractions. With high marks for location and hospitality, it’s ideal for concert-goers and weekend explorers.
- Origin Red Rocks, a Wyndham Hotel: Official hotel partner of Red Rocks Amphitheatre, this modern stay offers shuttle service to concerts, a trendy restaurant, and sleek rooms. It’s perfect for music lovers and those wanting a stylish base near Golden.
- Hampton Inn Denver West/Golden: A reliable choice for families and business travelers, this hotel offers clean rooms, friendly service, and easy access to I-70. Great for those planning day trips to the mountains or Denver.
- The Eddy Taproom & Hotel: A newer boutique hotel with a cool vibe, rooftop terrace, and taproom featuring local brews. Guests rave about the breakfast bar and mountain views — a great pick for couples or solo travelers looking for something fresh and fun.
🎥 My Travel Videos
Here is a video of Golden Town.
