We’re already pretty obsessed with the Gateway Trailhead for the Peak to Plains trail in Clear Creek Canyon. There are several perfect water access points a 2-minute walk from the parking lot and you can easily hop on the paved Peak to Plains trail for a walk, bike or scooter ride. I had no idea until recently that there is an AMAZING little trail up from the Gateway bridge that winds around into the canyon.

The first part of the loop takes you on the Welch Ditch trail which is actually an old irrigation system built in 1871 that moved water from Clear Creek to the School of Mines in Golden. You actually to walk along the canal which is fun for little history lovers and there are placards along the way that explain the background. But even better, the views of the canyon and the creek are incredible the whole way; there are wildflowers galore (we went in late Spring), and there are several fun bridges to cross.

The 2nd half of the loop is on the Peak to Plains trail so a nice change of pace from the Ditch and an opportunity to hit one of the many water access points on your way back.