Colorado has a multitude of superbly scenic byways, but the adventure-filled Lariat Loop is the state’s only urban byway and is closer to the metro area than any other. This rich 40-mile route provides access to a wealth of historical, cultural, and natural landmarks, where you can experience the thrills of mountains and foothills outside the city at more than 30 museums and interpretive sites, over 25,000 miles of open space and mountain parks, and 150 stunningly scenic square miles of pure Colorado beauty. The Lariat Loop provides access to all of the amazing attractions in the historic towns of Golden, Evergreen, Morrison, and everything along the way. You can choose a pre-planned trip or design your own route on the official site for the Lariat Loop National Scenic Byway, “Forty Miles of Western Adventure” and undoubtedly one of the most picturesque places to visit around Denver!
Start your fun-filled journey in the city of Golden, located along the Clear Creek just west of Denver. Check out notable attractions in town, including the Colorado Railroad Museum, Miller Coors Brewery Tours, the Rocky Mountain Quilt Museum, and more!
Another notable stop includes the Boettcher Mansion, which now operates as a nature and conference center for Jefferson County, and sits on a 62-acre site on Lookout Mountain. The historic "Lorraine Lodge" was built around 1917, as a summer residence and seasonal hunting lodge for Charles Boettcher, one of Colorado’s pioneer capitalists.
And don't even think about missing out on the exhibits and artifacts at the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, which pays homage to one of the truest treasures of the Old West.
Enjoy the breathtaking vistas atop Lookout, and it's easy to see why Buffalo Bill requested to be buried here, where the mountains meet the plains and the Mile High City reigns supreme.
As you make your way toward the historic town of Evergreen, you can't miss the Buffalo Herd Nature Preserve near Genesee, about 20 miles west of Denver.
Now that you've reached the quaint, quirky little town of Evergreen, there are a whole host of new attractions to explore, including the ever-popular Evergreen Lake, a lovely spot for rest and recreation.
Stroll the streets of this charming mountain town and peruse all of the shops, perhaps dip into one of their eateries or winery for a libation, and stop by the Hiwan Homestead Museum for some history and heritage. On your way out of town, pop in the Lariat Lodge Brewing Company, perched high on the hill with beautiful outdoor seating options and beer and vittles to match.
Did you know this acoustically-perfect naturally occurring amphitheater is a National Historic Landmark and is celebrating 75 years of history and hootenannies!?
After you rock the rocks, check out the shops and restaurants along the historic Bear Creek Avenue in Morrison, where you can savor scoops of ice cream, sip wine creekside, and stock up on snazzy souvenirs.
End your day on the tracks of the Bandimere Speedway, investigating the tracks and trails at Dinosaur Ridge, or dining on delectable dishes from the Old West at the Fort.
