One of the things our guides love most about working on Clear Creek is that no two days look exactly the same — and a lot of that has to do with what you see along the banks. Beavers, bighorn sheep, bald eagles, foxes, and the occasional moose all call this canyon home.
Here's a rundown of the wildlife you might encounter on a rafting trip out of Idaho Springs, and where along the river you're most likely to spot them.
Beavers
Look for their lodges along the calmer sections of the beginner stretch. These ecosystem engineers are capable of dramatically reshaping a habitat — and their handiwork is visible right from the raft. Nature's original architects.
Bighorn Sheep
Keep your eyes on the canyon walls during the advanced section. Bighorn sheep are built for terrain that would terrify most hikers, with hooves designed to grip rock faces at steep angles. During mating season, males engage in head-on combat that can last the better part of a day.
Moose
Moose are the largest member of the deer family — and impressive swimmers. Our guides have spotted them near Clear Creek on a handful of memorable occasions. If you see one, enjoy the moment from a respectful distance.
North American Dippers
John Muir called the dipper "the mountain streams' own darling." Early in the season, look for nests with young birds on cliff faces along the advanced stretch. These birds walk along the riverbed underwater to hunt — one of nature's most underrated tricks.
Bald Eagles
With a seven-foot wingspan, a bald eagle in flight is unmistakable. They frequent rivers for obvious reasons — fish. If you spot one perched on a snag or riding a thermal over the canyon, consider yourself lucky.
Mountain Goats
Built for the cold and altitude, mountain goats appear more like bovine relatives than the nimble climbers they are. Spot them high on the canyon walls, unbothered by terrain that would stop a human cold.
Foxes
Summer is a great time to spot young foxes near the water's edge. They're curious and fast, with eyesight sharp enough to catch movement from a long distance. They can also detect magnetic fields — which puts most humans to shame.
Trout
Clear Creek is home to Brook, Rainbow, Cutthroat, and Brown Trout. The canyon is a legitimate fishing destination — though we'd argue rafting it is a better use of your time.
"No two days on the river look exactly the same — and wildlife has a lot to do with that."
Keep your eyes open and your camera ready. The canyon has a way of surprising you.
See It For Yourself
Book a rafting trip and experience Clear Creek Canyon the best way there is — from the water.