Attractions and Places To See in Clear Creek County - Top 20

Clear Creek County is home to several prominent "14ers." You can hike Grays Peak, which is considered one of the easier 14ers to summit and lies directly on the Continental Divide Trail. Nearby is Torreys Peak. Another popular option is Mount Bierstadt Summit, also known for being one of the more accessible 14ers, though still requiring significant effort to reach the top.

Clear Creek County offers breathtaking scenic drives. The Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway is the highest paved road in North America, reaching 14,130 feet, offering 360-degree views and passing through diverse life zones. Another excellent option is the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway, a 22-mile paved road starting in Georgetown, providing access to stunning natural beauty and hiking trails.

You can delve into the region's rich mining history by visiting the historic towns of Idaho Springs, Georgetown, Silver Plume, and Empire. The Argo Gold Mine and Mill in Idaho Springs offers daily tours. Georgetown features the Hamill House and the Georgetown Energy Museum, while Silver Plume has the George Rowe Museum. These towns showcase Victorian-era architecture and offer a glimpse into Colorado's authentic western mining heritage.

Yes, Clear Creek County offers several family-friendly activities. The Georgetown Loop Railroad provides a historic narrow-gauge railway journey between Georgetown and Silver Plume, which is popular with families. Many of the easier hiking trails, such as those found in the Easy hikes in Clear Creek County guide, are suitable for families. Additionally, Clear Creek History Park near Golden re-creates a pioneer settlement with original and replica 19th-century buildings, offering self-guided tours.

Beyond hiking, Clear Creek County is a hub for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy mountain biking, fishing, horseback riding, white water rafting on Clear Creek, and ziplining. In winter, snowshoeing, skiing, and snowboarding are popular at Loveland and Echo Mountain. For more ideas on routes, check out the Running Trails in Clear Creek County guide.

Clear Creek County features several picturesque lakes. Herman Lake is nestled beneath Pettingell Peak, offering stunning views and wildflowers after a rewarding hike. Echo Lake, located at 10,600 feet, is a historic site popular for fly fishing, hiking, and picnics. You can also visit Saint Mary's Lake for its natural beauty.

For easier hikes, consider trails like the Beaver Brook Watershed North Loop or the Beaver Brook Reservoir via Beaver Brook Trail. These trails offer accessible options for those looking for less strenuous outdoor experiences. You can find more details and routes in the Easy hikes in Clear Creek County guide.

Clear Creek County offers year-round adventures. For hiking and exploring the scenic byways, late spring through early fall (May to October) is ideal, with summer offering wildflowers and fall providing stunning foliage. However, afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so early starts are recommended for mountain hikes. Winter brings opportunities for snow sports like skiing and snowshoeing.

Many trails in Clear Creek County are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific trail regulations before heading out. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash on most national forest trails. Always ensure you pack out waste and respect wildlife and other hikers.

Georgetown, a National Historic Landmark District, offers several historical sites. You can visit the Hamill House, which showcases 19th-century mining town life, the Hotel de Paris, the Georgetown Energy Museum, and the Georgetown Firefighting Museum (Hose House No. 2). These sites provide a deep dive into the town's rich past.

Parking availability varies by attraction. For popular hiking destinations like Mount Bierstadt Summit, there is a dedicated Mount Bierstadt Trailhead parking area. The Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway also has a summit parking lot. For other areas, such as Berthoud Pass, parking is available near facilities. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as spots can fill up quickly.

While much of Clear Creek County's terrain is rugged, efforts are made to provide accessibility where possible. Some facilities at mountain passes like Berthoud Pass may offer accessible restrooms. For specific wheelchair-accessible attractions, it's recommended to check directly with individual sites or visitor centers for the most up-to-date information on accessibility features.