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
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
- Golden – numerous attractions like Coors Brewery
- Lookout Mountain – various overlooks, a park at the top 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 Rd and begins the climb. Then follow signs to stay on the byway.
Details
Address: Golden, Morrison and Evergreen
Season: Year round
Length: 40 miles
Roads: 2WD, Free
Byway Maps: Lariat Loop (.jpg), Lariat Loop (.pdf)
Websites: lariatloop.org
