Lariat Loop Scenic and Historic Byway

Byway Details

Designation

National Scenic Byway

Length

36 mi in Colorado

About Lariat Loop Scenic and Historic Byway

The Lariat Loop Scenic and Historic Byway is a 36.2-mile drive in Colorado that holds two designations: it is a National Scenic Byway and also a Colorado Scenic & Historic Byway. The loop links Golden, Morrison and Evergreen, and it passes through a long string of smaller communities along the way, among them Kittredge, Idledale, Genesee, Bergen Park and El Rancho. Typical averages from a nearby weather station in Evergreen show July as the warmest month, with highs around 81°F and lows near 49°F. August is close behind at 79°F. June and September bring highs in the mid-70s, with cooler nights in the 40s. Summer is also the wettest stretch, with about 10 to 12 days of precipitation a month from May through August. Winter is cold, with January and February highs near 44°F and lows in the low teens. October offers a milder middle ground, with highs around 61°F and fewer wet days. The byway passes close to plenty to do. Red Rocks Trail and Bruin Bluff Trail are right along the route for hiking, and Mount Morrison offers climbing. Paddlers can find Bear Creek nearby. For an overnight stay, Dakota Ridge RV Park is about half a mile away.