Lariat Loop retraces the routes of early 1920s driving in the Foothills. It’s one of Colorado’s original gateways to the Rocky Mountains, full of sharp curves, winding roads, and plenty of places to pull over and enjoy the view!
It passes by the mountain towns of Golden, Morrison and Evergreen. This historic byway is the product of two earlier routes: the Lariat Trail Scenic Mountain Drive, which descended Lookout Mountain, and the Bear Creek Canyon Scenic Mountain Drive.
Activities on Lariat Loop
Biking – Bike up Lookout Mountain or just around one of the parks on the Loop.
Boating – Wake-less boating permitted on Evergreen Lake. The Lake house rents boats, first come, first serve.
Camping – These are a few campgrounds located near the loop.
- Golden Gate Canyon and Chatfield state parks
- Bear Creek Lake in Lakewood
- Echo Lake at the base of Mt Evans
Fishing – Clear Creek in Golden has some good fishing.
Hiking – There are numerous parks on the route, which are part of Jefferson County Open Space.
Winter Recreation – Snowshoeing is available at most of the parks if the snow coverage is good.
Highlights along the Drive
Golden – numerous attractions like Coors Brewery
Lookout Mountain – various overlooks, mid way up Windy Saddle Park, a park at the top called Lookout Mountain Park and Buffalo Bill Museum
Genesee Park – Buffalo Herd Overlook
Evergreen – centered around Evergreen Lake
Morrison – tiny foothills home of Red Rocks Amphitheater
The loop passes various parks in the Jefferson County Open Space system.
Getting There
From downtown Golden, take 19th St west to the mountains edge. It turns into Lookout Mountain Road and begins the climb. Then follow signs to stay on the byway.
Details
Address: Various Roads, Golden, Morrison and Evergreen, CO
Season: Year round
Length: 40 miles
Roads: 2WD, Free
Byway Maps: Lariat Loop (.jpg), Lariat Loop (.pdf)
Websites: lariatloop.org