Drives Colorado Denver, Boulder and the Front Range
Clear Creek Canyon: US-6
US 6 · Golden → CO-119 junction
The drive
US 6 follows Clear Creek from Golden into a deep, narrow granite canyon, with the road running beside the creek and through tunnels. The drive starts at the CO 58 junction in Golden and ends at the CO 119 junction, where the road to Black Hawk and Central City goes on.
It's 12 miles and about 20 minutes, with three twisty stretches among otherwise moderate curves. The canyon is tight and the walls are close, so the road feels slower than the numbers say. Heavy rain can send rock or slides onto the road and close US 6 for part of a day.
Along the way
- Golden (CO-58)
- CO-119 junction
Good to know
- Rockfall and slides close the canyon after heavy rain. CDOT's detour is I-70 between Black Hawk and Golden.
- The canyon is narrow and winding, with rock walls close to the road.
- Slow down through the tunnels and keep to your lane.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check CDOT COtrip.
Questions about this drive
How long does Clear Creek Canyon take to drive?
Golden to the CO 119 junction through Clear Creek Canyon on US 6 is 12 miles and takes about 20 min.
Does Clear Creek Canyon close?
Yes. Rockfall and slides after heavy rain close US 6 through Clear Creek Canyon at times. CDOT sends drivers to I-70 as the alternate.
How twisty is Clear Creek Canyon?
Clear Creek Canyon on US 6 is mostly moderate with three twisty stretches, with a creek on one side and rock walls on the other.
What you get in the app
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More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.