Frozen Clear Creek and the Chilly Waters Underneath

The last week has seen Golden in an incredible cold snap.  Clear Creek has been a solid sheet of ice for several days.  Yesterday evening, low-lying areas were evacuated when an ice dam further up on the creek broke.  No damage was done but it shows how easily the normally placid creek can quickly change into a raging torrent — even when frozen.

There were several large holes in the ice.  The sound of running water could be heard underneath.  The creek is still active under its icy cap.

Had it not warmed up when it did, I suspect that the ice would eventually have forced water into the local library and other community buildings on the north side of the creek.

A big hole in the ice.

Looking south toward the historic buildings.

Coors Brewing is in the path of any flood that comes down this creek.  The walkway along the creek that is usually clear for runners and walkers is under a significant sheet of ice.

The river play area is under ice.

The Washington Street Bridge with ice built up around its base.

Looking toward the north bank near the historical buildings.

Heather looking at the ice.

If someone were to walk out on the ice, there is a good chance that they would fall through and end up drowning.

A big hole waiting for something to happen.

The ball parks are under a sheet of ice from where the creek overflowed its banks.

 

After checking out Clear Creek, Heather and I went over to Mountain Toad Brewing and found that they had Capt’n Crabby as the food cart.  It’s a rare treat to find good crab cakes this far inland.