Hiking Devil’s Backbone Trail in Devil’s Backbone Open Space
Adventure Destination

Hiking Devil’s Backbone Trail in Devil’s Backbone Open Space

Explore the beautiful Devil's Backbone Trail near Loveland, CO, featuring a 4.3-mile loop with moderate difficulty. Ideal for hiking and wildlife observation, this popular trail offers stunning views and geological features. Best visited in spring and fall.

Hiking7.5/10Moderate
Photo Gallery

Category

Hiking

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Moderate

About This Adventure Destination

Introductory Overview

Hiking Devil’s Backbone Trail in Devil’s Backbone Open Space, near Fort Collins, Colorado, offers outdoor enthusiasts a chance to experience one of the region’s most striking geological formations. The trail is named for the dramatic rock ridge that spans the area, resembling a dinosaur spine. Known for its natural beauty, accessibility, and varied terrain, this trail offers something for hikers of all levels, from stunning views of the Rocky Mountains to opportunities for wildlife observation. As a local favorite, the trail is also an excellent way to engage with the area’s unique blend of history and natural wonder.

Editorial Assessment

Devil's Backbone Open Space offers a visually appealing and moderately challenging hiking experience with its unique rock formations and scenic views. While it's a great spot for outdoor adventure, it doesn't hold the worldwide recognition of top-tier natural landmarks.

Hiking Devil’s Backbone Trail in Devil’s Backbone Open Space

Adventure Guide to Hiking Devil’s Backbone Trail in Devil’s Backbone Open Space

1

1. Key Highlights Along the Trail

  • Details:

    The Keyhole: One of the most iconic features on the Devil’s Backbone Trail, the Keyhole is a naturally formed rock arch that offers incredible framed views of the Rocky Mountain Front Range. It's a perfect photo opportunity and a great turnaround point for short hikes.

  • Details:

    Wild Loop: At 4.3 miles round-trip, this moderate loop trail takes you through rolling hills and offers expansive views of both the open space and distant peaks. Its varied terrain makes it a favorite for those seeking a more immersive hike.

  • Details:

    Connecting Trails: The Devil’s Backbone Trail connects with Rimrock Open Space and Horsetooth Mountain trails, providing longer hiking options for those looking to extend their adventure.

2

Local Insights

  • Details:

    Geological Importance: The Backbone’s jagged rocks are made of Dakota sandstone, a formation dating back over 100 million years. Local legends claim the area was significant to Native American tribes for navigation and spiritual ceremonies.

  • Details:

    Flora and Fauna: Depending on the season, the trail offers sightings of mule deer, prairie dogs, and hawks, along with seasonal wildflowers like evening primrose and lupines.

3

Visitor Tips

  • Details:

    Best Times: Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and reduced crowds. Summer can be hot, with little shade along the trail.

  • Details:

    What To Bring: Wear sturdy shoes, bring sun protection, and carry plenty of water. Binoculars are a plus for wildlife viewing.

  • Details:

    Directions: From Fort Collins, take US-287 south to Wild Lane and follow signs to the Devil’s Backbone Open Space parking lot, approximately 20 minutes by car.

Reviews

L
Larry Wilsona month ago

Incredible experience! The views and natural scenery at Hiking Devil’s Backbone Trail in Devil’s Backbone Open Space are unforgettable. Well marked trails and a fantastic outdoor getaway.

P
Peter M.3 months ago

Clean trails with great directions. Once you arrive, there are multiple scenic vantage points to explore. Highly recommend visiting early in the morning.

D
David Pestana6 months ago

One of my favorite destinations in the region. Sunset here transitions into an unforgettable evening with shifting light on the landscape.

Nearby Adventures

Nearby Adventure Destinations

View All Destinations →
Rock Arch Wonder: The Keyhole near Loveland, Colorado7.80.94 miModerate
The Keyhole

Rock Arch Wonder: The Keyhole near Loveland, Colorado

Explore The Keyhole, a striking natural rock arch near Loveland, Colorado. Moderate hiking leads to this sandstone formation, ideal for climbing and photography. Best visited in spring or fall for cooler weather and great light during early morning or late afternoon.

View Details →
Canoeing or Paddleboarding on Lon Hagler Reservoir7.02.94 miEasy
West County Road 16E

Canoeing or Paddleboarding on Lon Hagler Reservoir

Explore canoeing or paddleboarding on Lon Hagler Reservoir, just south of Loveland, Colorado. This relaxing spot is beginner-friendly, offering a serene environment with opportunities to spot wildlife like herons and bald eagles. Permits are required, and it is accessible year-round.

View Details →
Hiking Coyote Ridge Trail in Coyote Ridge Natural Area7.55.11 miModerate
2124-2160 Spring Mesa Rd

Hiking Coyote Ridge Trail in Coyote Ridge Natural Area

Explore this moderate trail in Coyote Ridge Natural Area near Fort Collins, CO. Known for its beautiful views and wildlife, such as prairie dogs and hawks, this 4-5 mile hike is best during spring and fall and offers a peaceful escape year-round.

View Details →
Nearby Adventures

Bookable Experiences

Heavy-Duty Haul: Renting the Echo EEW 28' ATV Trailer in Loveland1.80 mi
Loveland, Colorado

Heavy-Duty Haul: Renting the Echo EEW 28' ATV Trailer in Loveland

A focused guide to KB Rentals Colorado’s Echo EEW 28' trailer in Loveland — what it carries, its key specs, and where and when to pick it up.

1.80 miView Trips & Details →
Lakeside Simplicity: RV Partial Hookup Site #61 at Monument Lake Resort3.21 mi
Weston, Colorado

Lakeside Simplicity: RV Partial Hookup Site #61 at Monument Lake Resort

A concise guide to Site #61 — a partial‑service RV site at Monument Lake Resort with water and 20‑amp electrical service, a fire pit and picnic table, located within walking distance of the lake and resort facilities.

3.21 miView Trips & Details →
Sea‑Doo GTI SE 155 — Loveland’s family-ready jet ski for take‑and‑go freedom3.56 mi
Loveland, Colorado

Sea‑Doo GTI SE 155 — Loveland’s family-ready jet ski for take‑and‑go freedom

A concise, authoritative guide to renting the Sea‑Doo GTI SE 155 from KB Rentals Colorado in Loveland, including take‑and‑go and on‑the‑water options at local reservoirs.

3.56 miView Trips & Details →
Ram 2500 & Grey Wolf: A family-ready tow package out of Loveland3.62 mi
Loveland, Colorado

Ram 2500 & Grey Wolf: A family-ready tow package out of Loveland

A rental pairing a 2022 Ram 2500 with a Wolf Pup 17JGBL travel trailer, fully furnished and pet‑friendly—this guide explains what the package includes and the practical details for a smooth trip.

3.62 miView Trips & Details →
Rocky Ridge Wrangler: Loveland’s No-Compromise Jeep Rental for Open-Air Off-Roading3.74 mi
Loveland, Colorado

Rocky Ridge Wrangler: Loveland’s No-Compromise Jeep Rental for Open-Air Off-Roading

KB Rentals Colorado offers Rocky Ridge–upgraded Jeep Wranglers—37" tires, a 3" suspension with Fox shocks, and options to remove the top and doors—rentals suited to multi-day adventures and custom quotes.

3.74 miView Trips & Details →
Lynx BoonDocker DS 850: Deep‑snow power to redraw your winter map3.74 mi
Loveland, Colorado

Lynx BoonDocker DS 850: Deep‑snow power to redraw your winter map

A focused rental guide to the Lynx BoonDocker DS 850 in Loveland — what the sled is, who can ride it, and the practical terms you must meet to get out on deep snow.

3.74 miView Trips & Details →