Clear Creek County: Rugged Mountain Living Just West of Denver

Embrace the spirit of the Rockies in Clear Creek County, Colorado. Located directly west of Denver along the I-70 corridor, this region serves as the true gateway to the high country. For the equestrian buyer, Clear Creek County offers a distinctively different product than the plains: this is mountain horse property at its most authentic. Dominated by steep canyons, pine-covered slopes, and historic mining towns like Idaho Springs, Georgetown, and Silver Plume, this area is ideal for those seeking a private mountain retreat with immediate access to millions of acres of national forest.

A Unique Alpine Equestrian Lifestyle

Horse ownership in Clear Creek County is for the adventurous soul. Unlike the flat grazing lands of the east, properties here are carved into the mountainside, offering dramatic views and seclusion. You won't typically find 40-acre flat pastures here; instead, you will find unique custom homes on acreage with terraced paddocks, cozy barns tucked into aspen groves, and loafing sheds protected by towering rock formations.

This terrain is perfectly suited for hardy mountain horses and trail riders who prefer the scent of pine needles to the dust of an arena. Many residents choose this area because it allows them to live at a higher elevation (often above 7,500 feet) while maintaining a manageable commute to Denver or the ski resorts of Summit County.

Backcountry Access Like No Other

The primary allure of Clear Creek County is the unparalleled access to public lands. The county is enveloped by the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests. For horse owners, this means you are often just a short ride—or even a direct gate opening—away from historic wagon roads and mining trails that date back to the 1859 Gold Rush.

Riders can explore the breathtaking scenery of Guanella Pass, ride near the base of 14,000-foot peaks like Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mt. Evans), or traverse the historic Argentine Central Railroad grade. It is a landscape that offers endless exploration, where a morning ride can take you past bubbling creeks, active wildlife, and remnants of Colorado’s mining history.

Why Invest in Clear Creek County?

Clear Creek offers a "best of both worlds" location for those who love the mountains but need city access. Real estate here captures the romance of the high country without the extreme isolation found in deeper mountain ranges.

• Location: The most accessible mountain living near Denver; be on the slopes or in the city in under 45 minutes.
• History & Charm: Live near Victorian-era towns that offer charming Main Streets, local breweries, and rich heritage.
• Adventure: Beyond riding, enjoy world-class whitewater rafting, hiking, and skiing right in your backyard.

Browse our current listings of Clear Creek County horse properties below to find your basecamp for high-country adventure.