DEVIL'S BACKBONE OPEN SPACE
On Saturday, the kids and I finally checked out Devil's Backbone Open Space. After driving past it several times on our way up Big Thompson Canyon toward Rocky Mountain National Park, I became interested in seeing what it was all about.
As with all our hikes, no matter how short, I checked it out online ahead of time to see what information is available. Devil's Backbone is managed by Larimer County.
The Larimer County web site has some good information available:
The trail is multi-use and we saw fully outfitted hikers and couples out for a leisurely stole, barefoot and shirtless guys in board shorts, trail-runners and mountain bikers. Oh, and we also passed a helpful Larimer Country Ranger answering questions for a vacationing family from Ohio.
The trail stretches from the main parking area just off highway 34 on the western outskirts of Loveland, all the way to the southern end of Horsetooth Reservoir. There is drinking water, a well shaded picnic area and bathrooms available at the trailhead.
There are future plans in the works to expand the trail all the way to Lory State Park at the north end of Horsetooth.
We started with only a couple of hours before lunch so we just decided to do the Wild Loop portion of the trail, which includes The Keyhole.
Blaine spotted a medium sized bull snake along the trail and that really made his day.
The kids got a big kick out of The Keyhole.
The Keyhole is a large window in the thin ribbon of rock that juts up out of the prairie.
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| The trail even has posted maps like this one at the major trail junctions. |
The opening in the outcropping offers some great views of the foothills surrounding Big Thompson Canyon.
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| The trail is marked with these unique welded iron posts. |
We took the opportunity to have a quick snack at The Keyhole and enjoy the vistas. Then we headed on north down the trail.
We had thought to complete the Wild Loop but just as we were starting back on the main trail a couple of mountain bikers whizzed by and it occurred to me that going back up on the upper trail would mean we wouldn't have to watch our back trail for the cyclists.
The trail is really well marked with signage showing where the trail is multi-use and where it is designated for foot traffic only.
The trail is fairly level and well maintained.
So, if you're like me, and you are looking for another spot for some good, family friendly hiking with some great views, check out Devil's Backbone Open Space.
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