Parks & Recreation

Access to high quality park and recreation facilities is a highly valued element of the Golden Community. The abundance of natural resources, proximity to the mountains, and presence of Clear Creek have given residents and visitors a number of unique recreation resources not found in most communities along the Front Range. The Golden Parks and Recreation Department is committed to the development of urban parks, vibrant recreation programming and preservation of the natural and historic resources in the City of Golden.

The Parks and Recreation Department encompasses recreation, parks, forestry, cemetery, facilities, golf and museums. The parks system provides 253 acres of parks, 24 miles of trails, 402 acres of open space, approximately 10,000 trees and amenities including the Cemetery, Community Center, The Splash Water Park, Clear Creek RV Park, Clear Creek White Water Park, Fossil Trace Golf Club and Golden History Museums.

The Golden Parks and Recreation Department is the first municipality in Colorado, and is one of approximately 141 nationally accredited agencies in the country currently holding national accreditation from the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). Read more about accreditation and other recognitions on the Department Recognitions page.

Vision

Golden will be recognized as a national leader in the provision of high quality parks, trails and recreation facilities.

Mission

The mission of the Parks and Recreation Department is to promote and provide safe and comprehensive community facilities, programs and services to enrich the quality of life for all residents and visitors.

Master Plan Update

The Parks and Recreation Department adopted its Master Plan Update pdf download on January 12, 2017. Learn more about how we created this new document to help shape the future of Golden Parks and Recreation

Golden Park Rules

Visiting a park or trail this summer? Take note of the Park Rules before you go. Visit our Park Rules page for a list of dos and don’ts.

Thank you for your feedback and participation in developing Golden Park Rules. This limited number of guidelines was created to protect our natural resources for the enjoyment of residents and visitors, and to ensure that those new to Golden are aware of what is required to maintain quality parks and open spaces. The Park Rules were formally adopted on January 26, 2017. Questions? Contact Stacy at sturner@cityofgolden.net.

COG Mesa

 Golden was named after Thomas L. Golden,
a gold prospector who arrived in Jefferson County in 1858.

Additional Resources

City of Golden, Colorado
COG Mesa
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