Colorado’s Little-Known Cold War Horse Named One Of America’s Most Fascinating Roadside Attractions

The Cold War was a long and trying time in American history, one of which the Greatest Generation, Baby Boomers, and most of Generation X will never forget. To commemorate this pivotal time in American history, Colorado houses a little-known landmark that pays homage to some unsung heroes from Colorado, and it is being called one of the most fascinating roadside attractions in America:

Recently released by Mental Floss is its list of the 51 Roadside Attractions Across America That Are Worth a Detour, which names the Cold War Horse as a can't-miss in Colorado.

Located at the former site of the Rocky Flats nuclear weapons plant in Arvada, the Cold War Horse - or Horse in a Hazmat Suit - is arguably one of the most eye-catching landmarks in the state thanks to the equestrian's unique attire.

As per Mental Floss, "Jeff Gipe's artistic tribute to the workers at the dangerous Rocky Flats nuclear weapons plant takes the form of a horse in a hazmat suit, standing nobly with one hoof raised," adding that "It's a profoundly goofy image that's housing a deeper message about what the nuclear weapons plant did to the surrounding area."

From 1951 to 1989, Rocky Flats was one of the largest nuclear weapons plants in the country, producing 70,000 plutonium triggers for nuclear bombs and causing detrimental human and environmental harm.

Because of the hazardous conditions, the health of the workers and public was jeopardized, and environmental catastrophes (a la leaking radioactive waste and fires) were plentiful, leading to one of the largest disasters in state history.

To commemorate this tumultuous time, Jeff Gipe - the son of a former worker - sculptured the peculiar horse, which can be found near the former site.

Learn more about this unique statue here:

You can find the Cold War Horse south of Highway 72 and west of Indiana Street in Arvada.

For even more can't-miss landmarks, check out these 11 Bizarre Roadside Attractions In Colorado That Will Make You Do A Double Take.