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Colorado Field Guide Established in 2017

3 Days of History, Hiking & Beer Along Lariat Loop

3 Days of History, Hiking & Beer Along Lariat Loop

3 days

More Itineraries

Explore Lariat Loop Scenic Byway, starting and ending in Golden, for its scenic foothills, red-rock formations, archeological discoveries and numerous breweries. (If you are going to imbibe, however, designate a driver.)

Sustainability Activity

How to Give Back to These Special Places:

There are special places and unique vistas around nearly every Colorado corner. You can help ensure these places exist for generations to come by staying on roads and trails, keeping speeds in check, leaving campsites and picnic spots just as you found them, and following instructional signs while you’re out and about in our state.

Day 1

Lunch

Trailhead Taphouse & Kitchen

We combine great food with great beer. Numerous local craft beers served, Cajun specialties, sandwiches and fresh salads to enjoy. Read More

Activity

Coors Brewery Tour

See and taste traditional brewing at the foot of the Rocky Mountains in the largest single-site brewery in the world! Since 1873 the Coors Brewery has thrived on a legacy of quality, innovation... Read More

Dinner

Old Capitol Grill & Smokehouse

The Old Capitol Grill & Smokehouse offers up a full menu of smoked meats and classic American fare with some unique twists, in an historic setting.... Read More

Activity

Barrels and Bottles Brewery

We are a small brewpub in downtown Golden. We serve delicious, fresh food; we also have 26 beers on tap, 26 wines on tap (to include wine slushies). We are located right across the street from... Read More

Lodging

Eldora Lodge

A wonderful escape, get out of the city and come enjoy a relaxing day in the mountains at one of the best semi-secluded mountain lodges you haven't stayed at yet! Come enjoy the view with us... Read More

Day 2

Insider's Tip

Wake Up & Dine: Enjoy a freshly cooked, homestyle breakfast at Eldora Lodge. It's served in the lobby.

Activity

Buffalo Bill Grave and Museum

The Museum illustrates the life, times, and legend of William F. Cody. It includes exhibits... Read More

Insider's Tip

Plan for Picnic Lunch: Swing by a supermarket in Golden to stock up on picnic goodies before heading to Buffalo Bill Grave & Museum. When you're done, continue southwest to Bergen Park, accessed along Highway 74, and pause for lunch. Bergen Park, on the National Register of Historic Places, is a pioneer site dating back to the 1860s.

Activity

Hiwan Homestead Museum

Built in the rustic style, the museum consists of a 25-room log lodge, built between 1880 and 1942, plus three other original buildings. The restored rooms are furnished from the original... Read More

Dinner

The Fort Restaurant

Join us for some shinin' times at The Fort! This award-winning restaurant sells more buffalo steaks than any other independently owned restaurant in the country, and is known for its "New Foods... Read More

Insider's Tip

Music-Lovin' Fun:

Review Red Rocks Amphitheatre's concert lineup and reserve tickets to coincide with your byway tour. Seeing a performance at this naturally formed, open-air venue is truly spectactular.

Activity

Red Rocks Amphitheatre & Visitor Center

It took 300 million years to create Denver's most scenic attraction and once you view this internationally known amphitheatre, you'll understand why Mother Nature took the time. 30,000-square... Read More

Lodging

Arrowhead Manor Bed and Breakfast Inn & Event Center

This gorgeous property has amazing mountain views and 5-star service, yet only 15 minutes from the greater Denver area. Private hot tubs, fireplaces, luxurious, 420 friendly, close to Red Rocks... Read More

Day 3

Insider's Tip

Wake & Dine Again: Arrowhead Manor Bed & Breakfast serves a hot continental buffet every morning, with delicious traditional breakfast items and Starbucks-brand coffee.

Activity

Dinosaur Ridge

Tread upon the stomping grounds of some of today's most notorios dinosaurs. More than 300 dinosaur footprints are preserved. Informational signs placed along the mile long path allow visitors... Read More

Lunch

Sassafras American Eatery, Downtown Golden

Satisfying and delicious breakfast and lunch. Stop by for our down home menu and enjoy our farm-to-table concept and fresh cocktails. Read More

Activity

Lariat Trail Scenic Mountain Drive

Hike or drive along the more than 4-mile scenic road that serves as the entrance to the Denver Mountain Parks System. Offering numerous switchbacks, it gains 2,000-plus feet in elevation.

Dinner

Abejas Restaurant

A community-focused restaurant dedicated to seasonality. We use fresh local produce, organic meats, and sustainable fish. The beverage program brings light to craft distilleries and breweries,... Read More

Activity

Coda Brewing Co.

Founder Luke Smith goal is to provide uniquely hand crafted ales and lagers for craft beer enthusiasts. Luke's passion is designing each individual beer with a unique water profile and a unique... Read More

Lodging

The Golden Hotel, an Ascend Collection Member

Award-winning hotel overlooking Clear Creek and the Rocky Mountain Foothills, located in historic downtown Golden. This solar powered hotel features a business center, fitness center,... Read More