Hiking | First Tunnel Walk
Hype:
The First Tunnel Walk trail is popular for hiking, photography, rock climbing, and fishing. This short trail gives you a rare opportunity to walk through a portion of Clear Creek Canyon. There are various small side trails that take you down to the water. On the far bank of Clear Creek is a dilapidated timber support structure for what I can only assume is a historic irrigation pipeline. The flow of clear creek is impressive here as are the towering canyon walls, making this short easy hike a rare gem.
Trail Condition: Class 1 (Trail is either paved or gravel. Navigation skills are not needed because there is only one trail or because there are signs. Elevation gains are gradual or there are stairs.)
Time: 15-45 minutes
Length: 0.7 miles one way
Elevation Gain: Negligible
Fees: None
Recommended Ages:
 | 0-3 |
 | 4-11 |
 | 12-19 |
 | 20-49 |
 | 50-69 |
 | 70+ |
Recommended Months to Visit:
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Navigate to 39.742264, -105.253648.
Closest City or Region: Golden, Colorado
Coordinates: 39.745282, -105.248422
By Jeremy Dye
Jeremy Dye, Tara Dye, Savannah Dye, Madilyn Dye, Cooper Dye, Ondylyn Wagner, Jaren Wagner, Killian Wagner,
We were hoping to explore Fault Caves, but when we got to the trailhead, we saw a sign posted saying that there were nesting eagles and that trespassers could be fined $100,000 through July 31. We were two days too early. Luckily, the trip wasn't wasted because were were able to hike down the First Tunnel Trail. We spent a while playing in the creek and looking for sparkly rocks. Then we finished the walk and then returned on the same trail. Cooper tripped and got several scrapes on his face and arm.
Hiking Trails
Marked Trails
No Drinking Water
Rivers and Streams
Mountains
Ghost Towns
No Restrooms
Road Access is Paved
Access Road is 2WD Accessible
Fishing
Wildflowers and Vegitation
Wildlife and Birding