Golden, Colorado, is an amazing place to live for outdoorsy people who can’t get enough of nature. This charming gold rush town is only 12 miles from downtown Denver, welcoming travelers to the Rocky Mountain foothills with open arms. You can visit Clear Creek History Park, the Buffalo Bill Museum, or the Colorado Railroad Museum to discover more about Golden’s past or delve into the endless outdoor activities of the nearby area.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park and the Lookout Mountain Nature Preserve are just two of the many amazing networks of hiking trails. Both thrill seekers and calm nature lovers will find unlimited outdoor entertainment in Golden since there are so many things to explore and memories to be made with family and friends. Whether you’re looking to fill a weekend hiking trip or hoping to kick up some dirt on a brief nature excursion after work, Golden is perfect for you.
Outdoor oasis
There is so much to enjoy about Golden for outdoor lovers. For starters, you can get outside any time of the year. The city has state parks, hiking trails, events, festivals, and plenty of ski hills to keep you entertained all year round.
In Golden Gate Canyon State Park, stroll through flaming yellow woodlands in the fall or bike up the trails for expansive views of springtime wildflowers. You might even catch local fish, spot a bald eagle, or encounter a moose in the summertime, and in winter, don’t waste your time indoors. The winter snow offers some of the most fun for winter sports lovers, including ice climbing, fat tire biking, or snowshoeing in nearby parks.
10 ways to get outside
1. Drive a scenic byway
You will never be short on stunning drives and views when you relocate to Golden, Colorado. The Red Rocks Amphitheater and many other gorgeous roadways are all a quick drive away and can provide an afternoon full of jaw-dropping views.
2. Golden’s Public Art Walking Tour
If you weren’t aware already, Golden has a lot of art to view. In fact, Golden has more than 30 statues and murals in its public art collection, which can be explored on a self-guided walking tour to suit your schedule and pace.
3. Shopping
4. Hiking and biking
Golden sits at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, which means you will never run out of good trails. Golden is in the perfect location to constantly encourage all your outdoor adventures, namely hiking and biking.
5. Take to the water
You’ll find that a lot of the locals prefer to spend their summer months near the water — and for good reason. White water rafting and kayaking are two of the most enjoyable summer activities in the area, but you can find nearly any water sports along the river — including stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, tubing, and more.
6. Check out Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Amphitheatre hosts music and scenery, making it the perfect place for outdoor entertainment. Red Rocks is truly distinctive to the region since it blends stunning geological features with an exciting concert and festival calendar.
7. Tap into the brewing history
The Coors Brewery is perhaps Golden’s most famous landmark. You can’t spend time in the area without checking it out and enjoying a brew or two. The Coors Brewery provides private tour guides that will highlight the brewer’s history and enthusiasm — but don’t feel like you have to commit to this brewery and only this brewery. There are numerous breweries in the area offering tasty drinks and guided tours.
8. Check out local festivals
There is a wide variety of diverse events held in Golden. If you’re looking for fun outdoor things to do, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the local calendar for what’s coming to the area. You can swing by for the yearly Buffalo Bill Days, Wild West Auto Round-Up, First Friday Street Fair, Golden Music Festival, and other beloved Golden traditions.
9. Take a camping trip
10. Explore downtown
Golden’s downtown is a unique travel destination where you’re sure to be entertained. Shopping options abound in its lovely old-Western-style buildings, which feature local brands, artisan gifts, and outdoor gear.
In addition, there are opportunities for calm, relaxing afternoons, including ice cream and coffee shops, day spas, family-friendly eateries, high-end dining, and hair salons. You can also check out the many entertainment options — such as the art galleries — to soak in the vibrant cultural atmosphere.
*Header photo courtesy of Unsplash