Scenic Drive on the Lariat Loop up Lookout Mountain

The Lariat Loop switchbacks straight up Lookout Mountain out of Golden — a historic 1910s mountain road that climbs fast to a long view back over Denver and the plains.

Denver · Drive · about 25 min · 8 miles · Pleasantness: Very High

Why this route is pleasant

• Tight switchbacks climbing the face of Lookout Mountain
• Sweeping views back over Golden and the Denver plains
• Pine forest and red-rock outcrops on the climb
• A historic scenic byway built in 1914
• Buffalo Bill's grave and a nature center at the top

What you'll see

• Golden and the plains dropping away below
• The Front Range peaks to the west
• Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave at the summit
• Hang gliders launching from the overlooks

Best time to go

A clear morning for the long view east, or sunset for the light on the Front Range.

Open this route in Pleasant Routes · More Denver routes · All cities