Devil’s Backbone Open Space wilderness guide
Open Space · CO

Devil’s Backbone Open Space

Devil's Backbone Open Space offers a striking geological formation with a rich array of trails for hiking and biking, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts exploring Colorado.

Open Space2,1984+ Trails
DesignationOpen Space
Total Wilderness Area2,198
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Devil’s Backbone Open Space

Devil's Backbone Open Space offers a striking geological formation with a rich array of trails for hiking and biking, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts exploring Colorado.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Devil's Backbone Open Space is located near Loveland, Colorado, and is famous for its dramatic rock formations that resemble a giant spine piercing the landscape. This open space provides visitors with over a dozen miles of trails, set within a semi-arid environment rich with diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can delve into history with interpretive signs that trace the area's past, from early Native American inhabitants to pioneer settlers. Popular among hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers, the area boasts a variety of recreational activities. The rock formations serve as an excellent backdrop for photography, and wildlife enthusiasts might spot mule deer, coyotes, or even golden eagles. Its proximity to the city coupled with its unique geological features makes Devil's Backbone a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Field Guide · Open Space
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Devil’s Backbone Open Space

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Keyhole, a natural arch in the rock formation offering stunning views.✦ The rugged landscape hosts a variety of species native to the foothills environment.✦ Interpretation trail signs showcasing the human and natural history of the area.✦ A lesser-trafficked trail loop that provides a more secluded wilderness experience.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Devil’s Backbone Open Space

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Devil’s Backbone Open Space
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Devil’s Backbone Open Space
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Devil’s Backbone Open Space
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Devil’s Backbone Open Space
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Devil’s Backbone Open Space.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No permits required, free access.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Devil’s Backbone Open Space

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Loveland, Colorado
⌖ 6.34 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Loveland, Colorado

Loveland, CO is a gateway to Colorado's great outdoors, offering hiking, mountain biking, and skiing opportunities. Discover the local scenery with adventures around every corner.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Berthoud, Colorado
⌖ 10.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Berthoud, Colorado

Berthoud, Colorado offers easy access to Colorado’s Front Range outdoor pursuits from hiking and biking to fishing and winter skiing. Its small-town charm pairs with scenic berths into Roosevelt National Forest and Berthoud Pass adventures.

Spring through Fall, with winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Fort Collins, Colorado
⌖ 12.44 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fort Collins, Colorado

Fort Collins is an outdoorsy college town with stellar hiking, biking, and paddling spots. Dive into its craft beer scene after adventures in the scenic Rocky Mountain foothills.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Timnath, Colorado
⌖ 12.88 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Timnath, Colorado

Timnath, Colorado, offers a quiet basecamp close to Fort Collins with easy access to hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. Explore local natural areas and nearby foothills for year-round outdoor fun.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Bellvue, Colorado
⌖ 13.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bellvue, Colorado

Bellvue, CO is an adventurer’s hidden gem, providing access to the Front Range for hiking, rafting, and camping. Revel in serene trails, rich wildlife, and clear waters.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Laporte, Colorado
⌖ 14.03 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Laporte, Colorado

Laporte, Colorado, offers a peaceful foothills setting with excellent hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and fishing opportunities along the Cache la Poudre River, making it a perfect base for outdoor lovers seeking a quiet adventure.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Devil’s Backbone Open Space

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Avalanche Safety & Rescue Package
ADVEXPEDITION
Loveland, Colorado
RentalsADV Bookable

Avalanche Safety & Rescue Package

Prepare yourself for Colorado's winter terrain with a private avalanche safety and rescue experience in Loveland. Learn rescue techniques, navigate snowy trails, and explore the stunning Colorado mountains in this comprehensive UTV adventure.

RentalsCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Ridge‑Top Rambles: An Hour on Horseback Above Loveland
ADVEXPEDITION
Loveland, Colorado
HorseADV Bookable

Ridge‑Top Rambles: An Hour on Horseback Above Loveland

A one‑hour guided trail ride from Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch that threads cottonwood gulches, meadow ridges and rocky slopes across the ranch’s 3,200 acres—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

HorsePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Ram 2500 & Grey Wolf: A family-ready tow package out of Loveland
ADVEXPEDITION
Loveland, Colorado
RentalsADV Bookable

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.

RentalsPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip