Page 11 - Lariat Loop

Colorado established a Scenic Byway program in 1990. In 1999, Lookout Mountain resident and architect Cynthia Pougiales was intrigued by the land preservation by Genesee, Mount Vernon Country Club, Northwoodside Foundation, Rilliet Park, Clear Creek Land Conservancy and Je Co Open Space. Many locals joined her in seeking a designated Heritage area and eventual Scenic and Historic Byway from Golden to Lookout Mountain, down through Evergreen, along Bear Creek to Morrison, north to Red Rocks Park. The “Heritage Area” of 150 square miles was designated in 2000 and the Lariat Loop Scenic and Historic Byway was designated in 2002 and gained national status in 2005. City & Mountain Views magazine promoted it in more than 15 features from 1998- 2012. Lomond also wrote and published a Lariat Loop book in 2002 and an extensive Je erson County history book in 2010.
By 2016, Je Co Open Space has preserved 60,000 acres “to provide a living resource of open space lands and waters... for the physical, psychological, recreational, and social enjoyment of present and future generations.” Je Co has preserved Clear Creek Canyon, Windy Saddle, Lookout Mountain, Apex, Elk Meadow, Alderfer/3 Sisters, Lair O’ the Bear, Bear Creek Canyon, Mount Falcon, and Mathews/Winters Parks within the Lariat Loop area. Denver and Je erson County work cooperatively together.
There are more than 30 interpretive sites and museums along the 40-mile Loop of sharp curves, winding roads, spectacular views, and delightful historic “downtown” shops and restaurants elevation gain 5,675 to 7,800 feet. There are more than 120 miles of trails for hikers, bicycles, and equestrians and opportunities to sh, boat, kayak, rollerblade, paraglide, ice skate, and cross country ski.
According to the U.S. Federal Highway Administration, the Lariat Loop is one of 150 distinct and diverse roads designated as “gateways to adventures” where no two experiences are the same. The National Scenic Byways Program invites visitors to come closer to “America’s heart and soul.” The Byway begins at the Lariat Trail (19th St.) in Golden or Red Rocks Park (Hwy 94) north of Morrison. The Byway is promoted by community volunteers at www.LariatLoop.org
Lariat Loop Scenic & Historic Byway 7
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