Buffalo Overlook: A Glimpse into the American West

Witness majestic bison roaming free at this accessible overlook just off I-70, a testament to Colorado's conservation efforts.

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Buffalo Overlook

The Buffalo Overlook, located just off I-70 near Golden, Colorado, offers an easily accessible vantage point to observe a herd of American bison, descendants of Yellowstone's last wild bison. It's a quick and educational stop, providing insight into the history and conservation of these iconic animals.

A brief summary to Buffalo Overlook

I-70 Exit 254, Golden, Mount Vernon, CO, 80401, US

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Bring binoculars for a closer view of the bison, as they may be grazing further away from the overlook.
Check both sides of I-70 for bison, as they use a tunnel to move between pastures.
Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best chance of seeing the bison active.

Getting There

Driving

The Buffalo Overlook is directly accessible from I-70. From Denver, head west on I-70 and take Exit 254, following signs for the Buffalo Herd Overlook. The overlook is located immediately after exiting. From Golden, take I-70 East to Exit 254. There is no fee to visit the overlook. Parking is free, but spaces are limited. Be aware that this area can be busy, especially on weekends.

Discover more about Buffalo Overlook

Just a short drive west of Denver, off I-70 at Exit 254, lies the Buffalo Overlook, a window into the American West and a testament to successful conservation efforts. This easily accessible overlook provides visitors with the opportunity to view a herd of American bison (often mistakenly called buffalo) in their natural habitat. The bison you'll see here are descendants of a herd of just seven bison brought from Yellowstone National Park in 1914. At the time, these were the last remaining wild bison in the United States, and their relocation to Genesee Park marked the beginning of Denver's efforts to preserve this iconic species. The park itself was Denver's first mountain park, acquired to protect the natural beauty of the Front Range. Today, the bison roam freely across several pastures in Genesee Park, moving between them via a tunnel beneath I-70. While they may not always be visible from the overlook, a short walk around the area increases your chances of spotting these impressive creatures. Informational signs at the overlook provide insights into the history of bison in North America, their near extinction in the late 1800s, and the ongoing efforts to ensure their survival. The signs also highlight the differences between buffalo, which are found in Africa and Asia, and bison, the North American species. Beyond the bison, the overlook offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It's a popular spot for a quick break, a picnic lunch, or simply a moment to appreciate the natural beauty of Colorado. Remember to respect the animals and observe them from a safe distance. These are wild animals, and while they may appear docile, they can be dangerous if approached too closely.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Brandy Duvall memorial cross

4.0 km

Explore the serene Brandy Duvall Memorial Cross in Golden, CO, a poignant tribute surrounded by natural beauty and community spirit.

Boettcher Mansion-Lookout Mt

4.4 km

Discover the stunning Boettcher Mansion on Lookout Mountain, a historic venue with breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.

Windy Saddle Park

5.1 km

Discover the breathtaking views and serene trails of Windy Saddle Park in Golden, Colorado - a perfect outdoor escape for all ages.

Mother Cabrini Shrine

5.4 km

Experience spiritual serenity and breathtaking mountain views at the Mother Cabrini Shrine, a cherished sanctuary in Golden, Colorado.

Downtown Golden

7.9 km

Explore the historic charm and natural beauty of Downtown Golden, a vibrant destination in Colorado perfect for tourists seeking adventure and culture.

The Newsboy Statue

7.9 km

Discover the charm of Golden, Colorado with a visit to The Newsboy Statue, a historic monument celebrating the spirit of youthful entrepreneurship.

Brickyard House

8.6 km

Explore the charm and history of the Brickyard House, a beautiful historical landmark in Golden, Colorado, rich with stories and stunning landscapes.

West Trailhead

9.6 km

Explore the breathtaking trails and stunning vistas at West Trailhead, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Indian Hills, Colorado.

Mount Falcon Park

9.8 km

Discover breathtaking vistas, historic trails, and outdoor adventure at Mount Falcon Park, a natural gem in Morrison, Colorado, perfect for every traveler.

Walker Mansion Ruins

10.3 km

Explore the enchanting Walker Mansion Ruins in Morrison, Colorado, where history meets breathtaking natural beauty amidst serene landscapes.

North Table Mountain

12.0 km

Discover North Table Mountain, a breathtaking peak in Colorado, offering stunning views and diverse hiking trails for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Arapahoe City Histoical Marker

12.2 km

Explore the Arapahoe City Historical Marker in Golden, Colorado, and immerse yourself in the rich history of early American settlers during the gold rush.

White Ranch Park

13.5 km

Explore the stunning natural landscapes and diverse wildlife at White Ranch Park, a premier outdoor destination in Golden, Colorado, perfect for hiking and picnicking.

Veterans Memorial Tunnels

15.9 km

Discover the breathtaking Veterans Memorial Tunnels in Idaho Springs, Colorado, a tribute to veterans and an engineering marvel amidst stunning Rocky Mountain scenery.

Wheat Ridge Historic Park

16.3 km

Discover the rich history of Wheat Ridge at the historic park, a beautiful museum showcasing early settler life in Colorado.

Unmissable attractions to see

Genesee Park

0.8 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Genesee Park, a natural paradise nestled in the Rocky Mountains, perfect for outdoor adventures and wildlife viewing.

Clear Creek Canyon Park

3.6 km

Explore the rugged beauty of Clear Creek Canyon Park: Hiking, climbing, fishing, and stunning scenery await in Evergreen, Colorado.

Lookout Mountain Nature Center and Preserve

4.5 km

Discover stunning trails and rich wildlife at Lookout Mountain Nature Center and Preserve, a perfect blend of adventure and education in Golden, Colorado.

Lookout Mountain

5.3 km

Discover the majestic beauty of Lookout Mountain, where breathtaking views and rich history converge for an unforgettable Colorado experience.

Lookout Mountain Park

5.4 km

Explore Lookout Mountain Park in Golden, Colorado - a stunning natural retreat with breathtaking views, rich history, and outdoor activities for every adventurer.

The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave

5.4 km

Explore the rich history of the Wild West at the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, where legends come to life amidst stunning Rocky Mountain views.

Lair o’ the Bear Park

5.8 km

Experience the stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Lair o' the Bear Park, a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Colorado.

Clear Creek Canyon

6.9 km

Explore Colorado's Clear Creek Canyon: Rock climbing, whitewater rafting, hiking, and scenic beauty just west of Golden.

Clear Creek White Water Park

Step back in time at the Astor House in Golden, Colorado's oldest standing hotel, and discover the rich history of the Wild West.

Essential places to dine

duo Restaurant

24.4 km

Experience the best of American cuisine at Duo Restaurant in Denver's Highland neighborhood—where fresh ingredients meet exceptional flavors.

Bar Dough

24.7 km

Discover the delightful fusion of traditional Italian cuisine and modern dining at Bar Dough in Denver's charming Highland neighborhood.

Forest Room 5

24.8 km

Discover the perfect fusion of art and cuisine at Forest Room 5 in Denver's Highland neighborhood—where every meal is an experience.

El Five

24.8 km

Discover Mediterranean-inspired tapas at El Five in Denver, where stunning skyline views meet exquisite culinary artistry.

Linger

24.8 km

Discover Linger: A unique dining destination blending global street food flavors with stunning views in Denver's Highland neighborhood.

Buckhorn Exchange

24.9 km

Discover Buckhorn Exchange in Denver - where history meets exquisite cuisine at Colorado's oldest steakhouse.

Jacques

24.9 km

Experience authentic French cuisine at Jacques in Denver's Highland neighborhood – where every dish tells a story.

Senor Bear

24.9 km

Experience authentic Latin American flavors at Senor Bear in Denver's vibrant Highland neighborhood.

Gaetano's

25.1 km

Discover the authentic flavors of Italy at Gaetano's in Denver’s Highland neighborhood - where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

The Bindery

25.2 km

Discover exquisite New American cuisine at The Bindery in Denver's Highland neighborhood—where every meal is an unforgettable experience.

Coohills

25.2 km

Discover the essence of French cuisine at Coohills in Denver—where exquisite flavors meet elegant dining experiences.

Avanti Food & Beverage

25.3 km

Discover Denver's culinary diversity at Avanti Food & Beverage - where multiple cuisines meet in a lively atmosphere.

Root Down

25.4 km

Discover Root Down in Denver: A vibrant American restaurant offering farm-to-table dining with a focus on sustainability and flavor.

Citizen Rail

25.4 km

Experience exceptional American cuisine at Citizen Rail in Denver - where locally sourced ingredients meet vibrant culinary creativity.

Tavernetta

25.4 km

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Tavernetta in Denver, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

Explore Denver's artistic spirit at 5 Green Boxes, a home goods store offering unique gifts and local artisan creations.

Discover the elegance of The Cruise Room in Denver, where Art Deco charm meets expertly crafted cocktails for an unforgettable lounge experience.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Buffalo Overlook: A Glimpse into the American West

A brief summary to Buffalo Overlook

Local tips

Getting There

Driving

Unlock the Best of Buffalo Overlook

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Discover more about Buffalo Overlook

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Brandy Duvall memorial cross

Boettcher Mansion-Lookout Mt

Windy Saddle Park

Mother Cabrini Shrine

Downtown Golden

The Newsboy Statue

Brickyard House

West Trailhead

Mount Falcon Park

Walker Mansion Ruins

North Table Mountain

Arapahoe City Histoical Marker

White Ranch Park

Veterans Memorial Tunnels

Wheat Ridge Historic Park

Unmissable attractions to see

Genesee Park

Clear Creek Canyon Park

Lookout Mountain Nature Center and Preserve

Lookout Mountain

Lookout Mountain Park

The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave

Lair o’ the Bear Park

Clear Creek Canyon

Clear Creek White Water Park

Mines Museum of Earth Science

Elk Meadow Park

Golden City Brewery

Mount Galbraith Park

Golden History Museum

Astor House

Essential places to dine

duo Restaurant

Bar Dough

Forest Room 5

El Five

Linger

Buckhorn Exchange

Jacques

Senor Bear

Gaetano's

The Bindery

Coohills

Avanti Food & Beverage

Root Down

Citizen Rail

Tavernetta

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Jolly Goods

Ruby Jane Boutique - Denver Highlands

Agape Grow

Mojave + Tejon Dry Goods

Common Era

Art Of Beaming

Patterns & Pops

MCA Shop

apropos

milly rose designs

Show Pony Vintage - LoDo

A Line Boutique

Garage Sale Vintage - Denver

Coco + Grace

5 Green Boxes

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Squeeze

Lady Jane

Williams & Graham

Occidental

Postino LoHi