Colorado’s Scenic and Historic Byways: Lariat Loop

Our series traveling Colorado’s Scenic and Historic Byways continues around the Lariat Loop! The Lariat Loop is named for its lariat (another word for lasso) shape that packs many historical and recreational sites into a relatively short drive close to Denver.

Lariat Loop is a 40-mile loop in the foothills that connects the towns of Morrison, Evergreen, and Golden. The entire route is paved, although drivers will experience an array of road styles, from a major interstate highway to winding, two-lane roads. The Byway includes two Scenic Mountain Drives that are historically significant scenic corridors and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Lariat Loop became a Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway in 2002 and is designated as one of America’s Byways.

Decisions about the Lariat Loop are guided by a 2006 corridor management plan created by the Colorado Department of Transportation. The plan notes the growing importance of heritage tourism to Colorado’s economy; the Lariat Loop provides access to so many historical and cultural sites that the Byway and surrounding area was designated as a Colorado State Heritage Area in 2000. A wayfinding study conducted in 2013 identified improvements to help drivers navigate the Byway. The report from the study contains detailed descriptions of the route and of the sites that can be visited along the way.

One of the most unique stops along the Lariat Loop is Dinosaur Ridge, located in a segment of the Dakota Hogback near Morrison. Dinosaur Ridge is the site of several important paleontological discoveries, including the first identified Stegosaurus fossils in the world. Visitors can stop by the exhibit hall to learn about the discoveries that have taken place since the 1870s and walk along the ridge to see fossils and preserved dinosaur tracks. To learn even more, bring along Darin and Denise discover Denver’s dinosaurs, a guidebook to Dinosaur Ridge that is full of activities and illustrations for paleontology enthusiasts of all ages.