History of Colorado’s Lookout Mountain and New Changes

Lookout Mountain 1917Photo byInternet Archive Book Images

* Author used AI in the creation of this article

An attraction beloved by many, Lookout Mountain serves amazing views at the edge of Golden, Colorado. Originally, the Ute Native American tribe inhabited the area, using the mountain as a lookout point due to its strategic location. The mountain gained further significance during the Gold Rush era in the mid-1800s, as prospectors searched for gold in the surrounding areas.

In the late 19th century, Lookout Mountain became a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its stunning panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains and Denver skyline. The Lariat Trail, a scenic route built in 1913, helped make this location a popular spot as well.

Photo byWikimedia Commons

One of the most well-known landmarks on Lookout Mountain is the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, dedicated to the legendary Wild West figure Buffalo Bill Cody. Cody's grave site on the mountain offers over 80,000 visitors each year a chance to learn about his life and legacy. However, the gift shop and restaurant is planned to close in 2025, as the city plans for a new experience at the mountain.

Today, Lookout Mountain continues to be a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and tourists alike, showcasing Colorado's natural beauty and storied past.