![]() ![]() When you live in Colorado, day hikes are all around and many of them offer breathtaking views. Plus, we have 300 days of sunshine a year. One of the spots only known to locals but it definitely worth checking out is Devil’s Backbone in Loveland, Colorado. It’s part of the Larimer County Open Spaces. We love it because it's practically in our backyard, a short drive from Wild Zora Foods facility in downtown Loveland. Family Funĭevil's Backbone is one of many open spaces of Larimer County, Colorado. ![]() Trying to get the kiddos away from all their electronics? Larimer County has a fun program called Passport to Your Open Spaces. ![]() You can pick up your passports at any of these locations and start collecting the rubbings. And since our friends at REI are one of the sponsors, you know the prizes will be great! When you visit all 16 open spaces, you can win the grand prize. The name sounds a bit scary but the Devil's Backbone Open Space is a beautiful slice of nature that offers a variety of trails suitable for the whole family, including Grandma. When you enter, you feel like you stepped away from the bustle and hustle of your everyday life. There is a surprisingly peaceful feeling. Stunning rock formations, grasslands, and high desert. The rock formation is over 70 million years old.Ī rugged, reddish rocky ridge protruding from the earth gave the area its unusual name. It was frequented by Ute and Arapahoe tribes. In 19th century, the area became a property of the Wild family. Alfred Wild started farming here and later opened a plaster mill. The mill was destroyed by a flood in 1965 but you can still see part of its foundation - just to the left of the main trail. The Wild family sold the area to Larimer County in the 1990s. The trails range from a half mile to about 7 miles long. The whole area is beautiful but you should try to get to the famous Keyhole arch that offers stunning views of the Rockies. If you are interested in wildlife, bring your binoculars and a camera. The crags of Devil's Backbone provide nesting space for a variety of birds, including red-tailed hawks, great horned owls, and barn owls. Planning Your HikeĮven though most of the trails are suitable for beginners, you should still come prepared. The open space is opened year-round, from dawn to dusk. Certain areas are closed during the spring, to protect nesting ravens, so check here before you go.ĭevil’s Backbone is a popular hike and the parking is limited. Larimer County installed a live webcam above the parking lot, so you can see whether it’s full.ĭogs are allowed on most trails but must be leashed at all times. You will be entering a rattlesnake habitat. ![]()
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