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

Devil's Backbone Open Space

Devil's Backbone Open Space offers a unique outdoor experience with its signature rock formations and miles of trails ideal for hiking and biking enthusiasts.

Open Space2,1983+ Trails

Designation

Open Space

Total Wilderness Area

2,198

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Devil's Backbone Open Space

Devil's Backbone Open Space offers a unique outdoor experience with its signature rock formations and miles of trails ideal for hiking and biking enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Devil's Backbone Open Space, located near Loveland in northern Colorado, is celebrated for its impressive geological formations including the distinctive spiky ridge that resembles a devil’s backbone. Covering over 2,000 acres, this area is a hotspot for outdoor recreation. The unique geography, shaped by millions of years of erosion, provides habitats for diverse wildlife, including mule deer, bobcats, and a variety of bird species. Historically, the land served as a travel route for Ute tribes and later for settlers in the region. Today, it offers ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife photography, with trails leading visitors through scenic vistas and serene backcountry landscapes. Notable landmarks such as Keyhole and the Wild Loop Trail offer stunning views of the Front Range and the distant peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park, making this open space a popular draw for both locals and visitors.

Field Guide · Open Space
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Devil's Backbone Open Space

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Rock Arch Wonder: The Keyhole near Loveland, Colorado★ 7.8⌖ 1 miHiking
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.

Canoeing or Paddleboarding on Lon Hagler Reservoir★ 7.0⌖ 4 miCanoeing
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.

Paddling at Carter Lake Reservoir★ 7.5⌖ 5 miPaddling
Carter Lake Reservoir

Paddling at Carter Lake Reservoir

Enjoy paddling at Carter Lake Reservoir near Fort Collins, Colorado. Ideal for water sports like kayaking and SUP, this area offers a serene setting with views of the foothills. Access is drive-in, making it perfect for families looking to escape into nature.

Hiking Coyote Ridge Trail in Coyote Ridge Natural Area★ 7.5⌖ 5 miHiking
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.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Keyhole, a natural rock formation and popular photography spot✦ Diverse habitats supporting myriad wildlife including prairie dogs and raptors✦ The scenic Wild Loop Trail with panoramic views of the Front Range✦ Interpretive signs along the trails providing insights into local geology and ecology
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

Mountain Biking

Available in Devil's Backbone Open Space
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

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

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
⌖ 5.38 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Loveland, Colorado

An outdoor lover's portal with easy access to Colorado's majestic Front Range, offering year-round opportunities to explore the Rockies.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Berthoud
⌖ 9.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Berthoud, Colorado

A friendly small town offering easy access to mountain adventures and plains recreation with a relaxed, community-driven outdoor lifestyle.

Spring through Fall, with winter for snow sportsExplore Town
Timnath
⌖ 12.62 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Timnath, Colorado

A peaceful suburban town near Fort Collins offering easy access to diverse outdoor adventures from hiking and biking to seasonal mountain sports.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Fort Collins
⌖ 12.70 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fort Collins, Colorado

A vibrant college town with easy access to the Rocky Mountains, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking diverse activities and craft beer experiences.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Lyons
⌖ 14.26 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lyons, Colorado

A small town with a big heart for outdoor lovers, providing easy access to the Rockies and the serene landscapes of Northern Colorado.

Spring, Summer, and FallExplore Town
Laporte
⌖ 14.56 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Laporte, Colorado

A tranquil gateway to Northern Colorado’s foothills offering easy access to rugged terrain, riverbanks, and forest trails with a distinctly small-town charm.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore 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.

12 bookable experiences

Tritoon Upper Deck w/ Water Slide • Landau Island Breeze 252 | Boat Tour in Loveland, ColoradoLoveland, Colorado · 4.86 mi away
On the Water· KB Rentals Colorado

Tritoon Upper Deck w/ Water Slide • Landau Island Breeze 252 | Boat Tour in Loveland, Colorado

Discover the ultimate outdoor thrill with the Tritoon Upper Deck and Water Slide experience in Loveland, Colorado. Perfect for adventure seekers and families, this private activity offers a unique blend of boating fun and water slide excitement in a scenic Colorado setting. Book your adventure now and create unforgettable summer memories!

2–4 hours

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.