Lawson
|
| Put-in: |
Lawson |
| Take-out: |
Dumont |
| Difficulty: |
Class IV
|
| Length: |
2 miles |
Black Rock
|
| Put-in: |
Green Bay Rock |
| Take-out: |
Rigor Mortis |
| Difficulty: |
Class V (400-900 cfs)
V+ > 900 cfs
|
| Length: |
5.5 miles |
Lower Clear Creek
|
| Put-in: |
Rigor Mortis Bridge |
| Take-out: |
Tunnel #1 (or Golden) |
| Difficulty: |
Class IV (400-900 cfs)
|
| Length: |
5.7 miles |
|
Clear Creek is a tributary of the South Platte River and directly west of Denver, making it the perfect day trip for those living in the area or headed out to the Rocky Mountains. It features steep, narrow and technical rapids that are both challenging and fun, in fact Clear Creek offers more rapids than any other commercially rafted river the in the state. Some of the rafting companies listed here also run beginning sections of Class II rapids on Clear Creek that are perfect for beginners and families.
The river flows through a historic mining valley with classic Colorado scenery. There is an old ghost town across from the put-in, and this area had one of the original strikes of the Front Range gold rush. Prospectors originally called it “Toughcuss” Canyon” for its rugged terrain and turbulent waters.
Most boaters choose to run the section below Missouri Gulch Trailhead with Class V- rapids. This section flows through three narrow gorges with technical drops, which can easily be scouted from the shoreline.
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