Golden

Golden is a city and former gold rush town at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, in Colorado. Clear Creek Trail is a network of paths running along a waterway. It passes Clear Creek White Water Park, a kayaking course. The Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum has exhibits on earth science and mining history. Northeast is the Colorado Railroad Museum, with vintage trains and an 1800s-style railroad depot.
Elevation: 5,675′
Population: 20,242 (2023)
Founded: June 16, 1859, as Golden City, Kansas Territory
Named for: Thomas L. Golden
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Denver

Denver, the capital of Colorado, is an American metropolis dating to the Old West era. Larimer Square, the city’s oldest block, features landmark 19th-century buildings. Museums include the Denver Art Museum, an ultramodern complex known for its collection of indigenous works, and the mansion of famed Titanic survivor Molly Brown. Denver is also a jumping-off point for ski resorts in the nearby Rocky Mountains.
Elevation: 5,280′
Population: 716,577 (2023)
Founded: June 16, 1859, as Golden City, Kansas Territory
Mayor: Mike Johnston
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