Gateway Trailhead Peak to Plains

Gateway Trailhead - Peak to Plains

Type … Drive-up

Highlights … Canyon, River, Views

Seasons … All Seasons

Closest Town … Golden

Shade … Some (more when the trees have leaves)

Stroller Friendly… Yes!

Parking Situation …Plenty

Potty Situation … Pit Toilets at trailhead

Map/Location… Google Map HERE

I just recently discovered this amazing spot and have been so excited about it, especially with summer on the horizon. It’s no secret I LOVE a river spot especially one with a “beach” and a good run or two for fishing. I have another post about the Peak to Plains trail in the Woods Wander section but this spot right off CO-93 is an easy-drive up though you do have to do a few flights of stairs to get down to the water. There is a paved ramp too for wheelchairs or strollers.

There are lots of places to explore near the Gateway trailhead - I’ve marked our favorite waterfront areas on the map below. Both spots have signs regarding swimming, so I can’t wait to come back when it’s warm outside. There is also a cool big bridge that little ones love (we crossed back and forth over this a few times during our visit).

Maybe my favorite part is how close it is to Golden which makes it an easy half-day or full day adventure by exploring the town before or after.

DRIVE-UP TIPS

Water Levels in Spring. Unlike a few other creek spots highlighted on WWM, Clear Creek gets high and fast in the spring and early summer months when snow is melting. They have a flag system (and signage) to notify visitors of dangerous water conditions.
Bring all the water stuff! Sand toys, swimsuits, water shoes etc as this is a wonderful place to splash around.
Paved path. Like the rest of Peak to Plains, the Gateway trailhead is the start of a paved trail system so you could always start the day with a short bike or scooter ride before cooling off in the river.
Busy on the weekends. The trail is popping on the weekends given its accessibility and proximity to Golden. I would consider going early to claim a river spot!

MAKE A DAY OF IT

Downtown Golden. This trailhead is only a 4 minute drive to downtown Golden so definitely recommend making a pit stop in this cool little town before or after Gateway. Our favorite spots in Golden are:
- D’s Deli (Sandwiches)
- Table Mountain (Mexican Food)
- Golden Mill (Drinks, Ice Cream, amazing outdoor patio)
Clear Creek Trail in Golden. If you want to keep exploring, we adore the trail that runs along Clear Creek downtown. There is a slide, chickens to feed, and a few fun bridges to explore.