Page 95 - Lariat Loop
P. 95
The Lariat Trail
LariatLoop.org
This exciting trail was the rst reliable road up to Lookout Mountain. It was built in 1911-14 by Golden’s “Cement Bill,” a genius without engineering education. The 56 perfectly-banked curves (including 7 hair- pins) rise 2,000 feet elevation from 19th Street in Golden up four miles to Lookout Mountain Road at Bu alo Bill Grave. Extraordinary views are enjoyed by hiking adventurers. Wind conditions are renowned among hang gliders and paragliders o Mount Zion above the Lariat Trail. It provided an excellent entrance to the 40-mile Lariat Loop to explore the Denver Mountain Parks.
Cement Bill surveyed the rise and dug a two-foot wide switchback by hand in 1911. After Charles
Boettcher and Adolph Coors
donated money and cement,
locals donated tools, a ditcher,
and a crew of about 25 men
completed the switchback in
1914. It was known as “the most
scenic road in America” in 1915,
and continues to be a most visited by engineers from around the world.
Lariat Loop Scenic & Historic Byway 91
