Overview of Lookout Mountain
Lookout Mountain is a 110-acre playground for outdoor enthusiasts located in Golden, Colorado, approximately 20 minutes west of Denver. The park, which is maintained by Jefferson County Open Space, provides free admission and is highly popular among bicyclists, rock climbers, and hikers.
For road bikers, Lookout Mountain Road offers a paved path featuring significant elevation gains. Motorists are advised to be cautious of cyclists on the winding road as it approaches Highway 6. Meanwhile, mountain bikers can explore the Chimney Gulch/Lookout Mountain trail, which begins on Highway 6 and takes riders to the summit of Lookout Mountain.
Rock climbers will find bolted routes at Lookout Mountain, with difficulty ratings ranging from 5.7 to 5.10c. It is essential to bring your own ropes, harnesses, and climbing gear to tackle these routes.
At the summit of Lookout Mountain, visitors are rewarded with stunning views overlooking Denver. Additionally, Buffalo Bill’s grave and memorial museum are located at the top, offering a fascinating insight into the life of William F. Cody, a legendary buffalo hunter and star of the Wild West Show.
History of Lookout Mountain
Golden City, now commonly referred to as Golden, was established in 1859 at the base of Lookout Mountain during the gold rush days when prospectors explored the Colorado hills for riches.
Charles Boettcher, founder of Great Western Sugar Company and Ideal Cement Company, owned a large portion of Lookout Mountain. He constructed a luxurious lodge in 1917 at the mountain’s peak, which is now recognized as the “Boettcher Mansion.” Today, the mansion can be reserved for weddings and various special events.
Following Boettcher’s passing in 1948, his family continued to utilize the lodge. Charline Breeden, his granddaughter, generously donated 110 acres of land and the lodge to Jefferson County a few years before her death in 1972.
Hours and Admission: The park is open year-round from 8 a.m. until dusk. While there is no admission fee for the park and trails, the Buffalo Bill Memorial Museum does charge $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, and $1 for children.
Directions to Lookout Mountain
Lookout Mountain is accessible via either I-70 or Highway 6. Accessing from I-70 tends to be more straightforward, although some biking trails are situated closer to Highway 6.
Directions from I-70: Departing from Denver, head west on I-70. Take exit #256 and follow the brown signs directing you to Lookout Mountain.
Directions from Highway 6: From Denver, travel west on Highway 6 until you reach Golden. Turn left onto 19th Street, which briefly passes through a residential area. Following this, proceed up Lookout Mountain Road to arrive at the mountain’s peak. For those unfamiliar with Denver, be prepared for the winding roads that have a posted speed limit of 20 mph.
