Colorado

In the foothills of the Front Range about halfway between Fort Collins, CO and Loveland, CO is the Devils Backbone Open Space, owned and operated by Larimer County. This area is adjacent to Coyote Ridge Natural Area (operated by the city of Fort Collins), Prairie Ridge Natural Area (operated by city of Loveland) as well as Rimrock Open Space (also operated by Larimer County) and connected to each of these via hiking trails. This area is named for a prominent geological feature - Devil's Backbone - which is a highly-visible sedimentary hogback protruding from the ground like a spine. This combined area is popular with hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders and wildlife viewers who might see coyotes, mountain lions, rattlesnakes and more. Rising above the plains to the east, these areas provide excellent views in all directions.

When Open? Area Acres Operated By
Year-Round; dawn to dusk only 2,236 acres Larimer County Parks
Dogs Allowed? Miles of Trail Max/Min Elev (ft)
Dogs allowed on leash 20 5,060ft - 6,330ft

Devils Backbone Open Space Trail and Map Finder

Area Hiking Trails:
1 - Blue Sky Trail
2 - Coyote Ridge - Rimrock Trail
3 - Coyote Ridge Connector Trail
4 - Coyote Ridge Loop Trail
5 - Devils Backbone Loop Trail
Area Hiking Trails:
1 - Blue Sky Trail
2 - Coyote Ridge - Rimrock Trail
3 - Coyote Ridge Connector Trail
4 - Coyote Ridge Loop Trail
5 - Devils Backbone Loop Trail
6 - Devils Backbone Trail
7 - Hidden Valley Trail
8 - Hunter Loop Trail
9 - Indian Summer Trail
10 - Keyhole Trail
11 - Laughing Horse Loop Trail
12 - Rimrock Cutoff Trail
13 - Wild Loop Trail
Area Trailheads:
1 - Blue Sky Trailhead
2 - Coyote Ridge - Rimrock Trail
3 - Devils Backbone Trail
Area Campgrounds: