7 Ways To Get Outside near Central City

Let Central City be your basecamp for your true Rocky Mountain adventures! 

Central City, nestled in the Rocky Mountains is quite literally, in the middle of numerous outdoor adventures. While this list only scratches the surface, it provides a glimpse of all the ways you can stretch your legs near Central City. 

Rafting

Kowabunga! Ride the rapids of Clear Creek as it flows near Central City and into Clear Creek Canyon. Rafting trips are best planned for late spring and early summer when the water levels are highest, but you can enjoy the creek all year round depending on your activity. The canyon itself is gorgeous with chiseled walls and twists and turns. We recommend these nearby rafting guides in Idaho Springs and Golden: Clear Creek Canyon Rafting Company & Raft Echo. 

Hiking

Your boots were made for walking, and that’s just what they’ll do around the Arapahoe and Roosevelt National Forests surrounding Central City. A 20-minute scenic drive from Central City will take you to Golden Gate Canyon State Park, which is full of trails of all levels. We like the views on Beaver Trail. Heads up that there is a fee to enter the park. North of Central City lies many OHV and other off-roading trails, but scattered throughout are a few hiking trails, like Peck’s Gulch Trail. Other hikes can be found all throughout Clear Creek Canyon on our way up to or headed down from Central City. Explore the paved Peak to Plains trail just south of Central City, or explore Mayhem Gulch on odd-numbered weekends. 

Mountain Biking

Up for some flowy single track with some fun banks? Less than 20 minutes from town, you’ll find a mountain biker’s dream trail system at the Floyd Hill Open Space. For the more advanced riders, prepare for some fun whipping, steep banks on the downhill of The Sluice.

Climbing

How does this sound? Just a few minutes from town, you can find some awesome climbs with minimal approaches? And we mean minimal! Welcome to Clear Creek Canyon or CCC, you’ll find  world-class crags full of highly rated climbs and great views. Climbs are sorted by tunnel number, where you’ll find parking options scattered throughout the canyon. This canyon is known for a range of sport climbs and even features many multi-pitch options. You can also check out some local guides. Climb on! 

OHV Off-Roading

Northwest of Central City, you’ll find lots of room to rev your engine on various OHV and off-roading trails. Yankee Hill offers great views and quite a trill, and Pickle Gulch out-and-back is home to gorgeous wildflowers in summer months. 

Paddling

Prefer to travel by boat? Bring your kayaks, paddleboards and other non-motorized boats to Chase Gulch Reservoir. Enjoy a day on the shore, or paddle a lap or two around the reservoir just for fun! Pull off at Big Easy trailhead for easy parking and the perfect spot for a shoreline picnic or float. 

Fly Fishing 

If you want to get away from it all, grab your rod and reel and cast a line into Clear Creek or Chase Gulch Reservoir! Clear Creek is known in the fishing world for it’s big browns and feisty bows and brook trout. North of Central City, North Clear Creek boasts Colorado cutthroats, a mighty prize for those looking to hook some big ones. Check out local guides.

Camping

Can’t get enough of the outdoors? Pitch your tent or pull up your RV to any of Central City’s local campgrounds. From the close-by KOA to the quieter Columbine Campground and Cold Springs campground, you’re sure to find the perfect fit. Make sure to book your KOA stay in advance, as weekends fill up fast. 

No matter how you choose to explore the great outdoors during your visit to Central City, be sure to fuel up with a meal in town, or cheers to a great adventure at a local brewery or casino.