devil's backbone nature trail

The nature trails at Devil's Backbone Open Space are a nice place to enjoy a leisurely to moderate hike/walk. We really enjoyed walking here midweek on a late afternoon as there were fewer people and incredible views.It's important to wear appropriate shoes and clothing to hike here. The trails are nicely maintained and dogs are allowed on leashes. Be sure to pack plenty of water for yourself and critter as there are no water sources along the trails.

Good hike, uphill and downhill coming back. Nice path, not too many rocks in the way. Great views of the foothills, some mountains too, the valley, as well.

This is a nice mellow stroll but can be mixed with a more rigorous hike if you continue on towards the Coyote Ridge Trail that joins up to it. Beautiful views and very relaxing!

Great hike for anyone, including families...just stay on the path as there could be rattlesnakes! Summary taken from website: The Devil's Backbone itself is one of the most impressive and visible geologic landmarks in Larimer County, as well as an important cultural feature with a rich and colorful history.Drinking water is available at the trailhead. Please carry enough for your hike or ride. This open space is popular. If you arrive to a full parking lot, that means trails are at maximum capacity. Devil's Backbone Open Space is open from dawn to dusk, has no entrance fee, and is located west of Loveland, Colorado.

We went to devil's backbone with family when we went to visit them in CO. The first day we hiked teh trails. They were easy hikes, even the kids and folks in non-hiking shoes could do. The view was great. The only thing is that once you're done, you're like OK what's next.

Very beautiful. Looks like the trails are good. Did not walk any because of the danger of rattlesnakes, and we had our dog with us.

Hated to leave Colorado and our short vacation was in need of a final consumption of thin air. We accidentally found this park on our trip out of Estes Park, late afternoon. A dutiful Park Ranger was just finishing his tasks, thankfully left, and we discovered a nice path. We found a pair of llamas, some shade, and some final peace of mind.Too hot for a trail walk, but we hope to return one day to feed the llamas.

This is a fantastic easy - moderate hike that allows pets on the trail. No shade, so be sure to bring your sunscreen and water bottle. There is a fountain and bathroom facilities at the trail head.

This is a nice hike if done when it is cloudy and/or starting early (before 9am). The trail is very gentle and can be done by almost everyone, but be careful for snakes and lots of jutting rocks. The further you go the better the views are so go as far as you can!

Great trail - not too hard but wear boots as you may well come across snakes. Views are great if you get to the keyhole - good for photos too - I did not have my camera with me though! It is easy to find of CO34

The Devil's Backbone is aptly named because that is what it looks like from a distance. It is north of highway 34 on the west side of Loveland. It is just a few miles from the mouth of the Big Thompson Canyon on the drive heading up to Estes Park. It is a rolling hills type of hike on a trail that can be shared with horses, bikes, and hikers. The higher trail to the key hole, is for hikers only and does add some elevation and great views. Do be aware there are rattle snakes in this area, I have seen them quite often, thus wise to look and carry a hiking stick to get them out of your way gently if needed. This trail offers nice views and many options if you don't have time to go up into the mountains. It is in between the hog backs and if you know geology, it is along tilted strata that are found up and down the front range. You can go for miles along this trail as it hooks into the foothill trail system of Larimer County. If you park a vehicle at another trail head you can go distances of 10- 20 miles. It would be a great training trail for trail runners and is fun to get some flatter hiking miles on. It is exposed, so carry water and sunscreen and prepare to enjoy a lovely walk along some geologic history!

This is the kind of area I like to see when I travel, something you will not see anywhere else. Garden of the Gods in Colorodo Spring is similier but still differant. The trail is well maintained and still a good workout. The rock formation is awesome, reminds me of Godzilla laying down. I did this hike in the evening so the heat was bearable. If you do it in the middle of the day, keep in mind their is almost no shade on the trail.

This is a beautiful spot. You must make the short, relatively easy hike to the Keyhole. I managed to get stuck on the trail during a thundershower so the Keyhole came in handy for shelter. I also biked Blue Sky trail. People are not kidding about the rattlesnakes in this area. I came across one that would not leave the path and just kept hissing and rattling at me. You are out in the middle of nowhere so plan accordingly because mean snakes and storms do happen here. Because it is so open, it is hot.

This is a lovely hike, with interesting features, but I only made it as far as the Keyhole, about a mile in. It was the middle of the day, and it felt like I was walking through a desert. The sun was biting! The Keyhole was a nifty trip though, and I was able to get a few scenic and nature photos as well. I'm glad I decided to turn around after the Keyhole for two reasons: there was a light breeze to walk into, and I was followed out by a thunderstorm, which made for some great pics!

Nice views and very interesting geology, but can be hot when very sunny. Best if visited in cooler months.