02 Feb Best Breweries in Evergreen, CO You Must Visit
If you ask any local what the perfect Evergreen Saturday looks like, it almost always follows a specific formula: a morning hike at Three Sisters, a quick stroll around the Lake, and – without fail – a pint at one of the Evergreen Colorado breweries to watch the sun dip behind the Continental Divide.
Located just 30 minutes west of Denver, the town offers a beer culture that is distinct from the bustling industrial taprooms of the city. Here, the beer is brewed with snowmelt water, the patios overlook rushing creeks, and the “dress code” usually involves hiking boots and a flannel.
Whether you are a craft beer aficionado or just looking for a relaxed spot to unwind after a drive up I-70, here is your essential guide to the Evergreen, Colorado, breweries you need to visit.
1. Lariat Lodge Brewing Company
Location: https://lariatlodgebrewing.com/
The Vibe: Historic Cabin Meets Elevated Gastropub
As the first of the Evergreen breweries to open its doors, Lariat Lodge holds a special place in local history. Perched on a cliffside overlooking Bear Creek, just two minutes east of downtown, this spot feels like the quintessential mountain lodge. It strikes a rare balance: it’s casual enough for a post-hike beer but refined enough for a celebratory dinner, easily making it one of the best local breweries Evergreen, Colorado has to offer.
The venue features a dog-friendly “bark garden,” decks with water views, and a cozy interior that feels more like a living room than a bar.
What to Drink
- Angry Elk Amber Ale: The flagship beer that anchors their lineup.
- Mad Scientist” Series: Keep an eye out for their rotating experimental brews, where the brewmaster gets creative with seasonal ingredients.
The Food (Don't Skip This)
Unlike many Colorado breweries, where food might be an afterthought, Lariat Lodge is a legitimate gastropub.
- Gus’s Perfect Pretzel: Served with rich house-made beer cheese. It’s the mandatory starter.
- Lodge Podge Red Chili: An award-winning recipe loaded with pork, steak, and roasted peppers.
- The Angry Elk Burger: For the adventurous eater, try this elk burger topped with raspberry preserves and candied jalapeños.
2. Evergreen Brewery (Evergreen Tap House)
Location: https://evergreenbrewingco.com/
The Vibe: The Authentic “Locals’ Living Room”
If you want to see where the locals actually hang out, head to Evergreen Brewery. Located above Boone Mountain Sports, this spot captures the soul of the town. It is unpretentious, vibrant, and deep-rooted in the community, cementing its status as a staple among Colorado breweries. You will likely sit next to mountain bikers fresh off the trail or skiers warming up after a day at Echo Mountain.
The standout feature is the second-story patio. On a clear day, the views of Bergen Peak and Elk Meadow are arguably the best of any patio in town.
What to Drink
- Elk Meadow IPA: A solid, hop-forward American IPA that pays homage to the open space visible from the deck.
- Three Sisters Super Session: At 3.9% ABV, this is the perfect “crusher” if you are feeling the altitude but still want full flavor.
The Food
The menu here is comfort food done right. The kitchen is known for creative twists on pub classics, from Vietnamese-inspired Banh Mi sandwiches to “East Coast style” Italian subs. It is hearty, satisfying fare designed to refuel you after an adventure.
3. Revival Brews
Location: https://www.revivalbrews.pub/
The Vibe: A Curated Craft Beer Experience
While Revival Brews isn’t a production brewery (meaning they don’t brew on-site), it is consistently cited as one of the top-rated breweries in Evergreen, CO. Think of it as a curated library of the region’s best independent suds. They rotate their taps to feature heavy-hitters from across the state – like WeldWerks, Outer Range, and 4 Noses – bringing the best of the Colorado craft beer scene to one location.
The atmosphere is “Colorado Quintessential,” featuring a massive, dog-friendly patio that buzzes with energy on summer afternoons.
What to Drink
Because the tap list changes constantly, ask the bartender for a recommendation based on what you usually like. It is the perfect place to explore styles from various Evergreen CO’s breweries and state favorites without leaving your seat.
The Food
Revival takes its food program seriously.
- House-Made Chips with Blue Cheese Fondue: This is their signature appetizer and is famous around town.
- The BLT: Made with thick-cut peppered molasses bacon.
4. El Rancho Brewing Company
Location: https://nextdoor.com/neighborhood/elranchoco–evergreen–co/
Status Update (2026): Open for Private Events Only
El Rancho is a landmark. Sitting at nearly 7,700 feet along Highway 40, the historic log building has been welcoming travelers since 1948. While it has a storied past as a brewery and restaurant, please note that as of early 2026, El Rancho is operating primarily as a private event venue.
If you are planning a wedding or a large corporate retreat, this is a spectacular historic venue. However, for the casual traveler looking for a pint at Evergreen breweries, we recommend checking their website or calling ahead to see if public hours have resumed before making the drive.
FAQs
- Q1: Are Evergreen, Colorado, breweries dog-friendly?
Ans: Yes! Evergreen is an incredibly dog-friendly town. Lariat Lodge features a dedicated “bark garden” and even offers dog menu items. Revival Brews is also famous for its large, pup-friendly patio. Always keep your dog leashed and friendly!
- Q2: Which of the best local breweries in Evergreen, Colorado, serve food?
Ans: You won’t go hungry here. Lariat Lodge offers a full elevated gastropub menu (try the elk burger). Evergreen Brewery serves excellent,t hearty sandwiches and comfort food. Revival Brews offers high-end pub snacks and meals.
- Q3: Is it easy to get an Uber or Lyft after visiting breweries?
Ans: Rideshare services are available, but can be less reliable than in Denver. Wait times can be longer (15-20+ minutes), and availability drops late at night. We highly recommend scheduling your ride in advance or having a designated driver when touring the Evergreen, Colorado, breweries.
- Q4: How does the altitude affect drinking beer?
Ans: Evergreen sits at about 7,220 feet. The effects of alcohol are felt faster and more intensely here than at sea level. A good rule of thumb is “one drink equals two.” Drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
- Q5: Are there gluten-free options at these breweries?
Ans: Yes. Revival Brews typically carries high-quality ciders and seltzers on tap. Evergreen Brewery and Lariat Lodge also offer wine and cocktail lists if beer isn’t on your menu, along with gluten-friendly food options (like bunless burgers or salads).
- Q6: Which brewery has the best view?
Ans: It’s a tie between Lariat Lodge (overlooking the rushing Bear Creek waters) and Evergreen Brewery (overlooking Elk Meadow and Bergen Peak). Both offer quintessential mountain vistas.
Tips for Enjoying Beer at 7,200 Feet
If you are visiting from sea level, keep in mind that drinking at high altitude is a different ballgame.
- The “One Drink = Two” Rule: Alcohol hits you faster and harder at high elevation. Pace yourself.
- Hydrate Aggressively: The mountain air is dry. For every pint of beer, drink a glass of water.
- The Drive: Evergreen is a mountain town with winding roads. Rideshare options can be limited late at night, so always have a designated driver or plan your transport.
Love the lifestyle? Imagine ending every work week with a view of Bergen Peak and a local IPA in hand. Evergreen isn’t just a place to visit; it’s an incredible place to call home. Whether you are looking for a log cabin near the creek or a family home in Hiwan, The Phillips Team is here to help you navigate the market.