Devil's Backbone Hike

Get ready for an adventure that’s breathtaking! Join us for a 2.5-mile hike with a 256-foot elevation gain that will leave you in awe literally and figuratively! As you conquer the Devil’s Backbone, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and perfect photo opportunities at the keyhole overlooking Loveland, Colorado. It’s the ideal spot to snap a selfie that shouts, “I’m on top of the world!” Plus, you’ll get to chat with fellow nature lovers and maybe even make a new friend or two within our LGBTQ+ community.

This 3,007-acre paradise is a haven for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. With 17.25 miles of trails connecting to Rimrock and Horsetooth Mountain Open Spaces, you can hike, run, horseback ride, or mountain bike through vibrant grasslands filled with wildflowers, all under the watchful eyes of red-tailed hawks. However, on this journey, we will be doing a 2.5-mile hike. Afterwards, you’re more than welcome to choose your own trail. The Devil’s Backbone itself is a geological wonder, a “hogback” formed over 100 million years ago when ancient seas laid down sand and gravel. Fast forward 50 million years, and tectonic forces gave it a dramatic tilt, creating the iconic spine we see today. It’s like a rock-solid history lesson!

Before you hit the trail, make sure to bring plenty of water. There’s a refill station at the trailhead (weather permitting), but it’s always wise to be prepared. And if the parking lot is full, don’t worry. There are plenty of other open spaces to explore, and just communicate with me so we can make a plan if the parking lot is full. So, grab your gear, bring your sense of adventure, and let’s create unforgettable memories at the Devil’s Backbone Open Space!

Park Information:
https://www.larimer.gov/naturalresources/parks/devils-backbone

AllTrails:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/keyhole-via-wild-loop-trail?sh=9u6zpt&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality