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Devil's Backbone Open Space
4.8 ★★★★★ 1,021 Google reviews · Running trail in Loveland, Colorado · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Devil's Backbone Open Space's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
This 2,198-acre area features rock formations & trails for hiking, biking & horseback riding.
What runners say about Devil's Backbone Open Space
“The trails are well maintained and you have some incredible views, while the landscape is changing!”
“It’s a relatively short hike with a steady incline, and the views along the way are absolutely stunning.”
“It was hot (82°) and there's no shade (except at the keyhole) so bring hats, sunscreen and water.”
“Due to its easy walk we’ve seen people of all ages at various parts of the loop.”
This hike was on the easier side and a nice hike for someone who is not in perfect shape. The trail had amazing views and if you do the Wild Loop, the Keyhole view at the end is breathtaking. Highly recommend this hike for someone looking for a pretty hike with some elevation that can be completed in about an hour.
Great hike with great views. $10 parking per vehicle if you don't have a pass. Bring water and know that it's probably going to get hot! We went in the morning and had a beautiful walk, but it was getting warm as we were heading out.
Devil's Backbone is such a cool area. The Wild Loop trail is wonderful. It can be busy, but easy to pass and be passed. Stunning views and an overall quiet area. Don't forget to check out the keyhole. Cannot wait to go back! Dog friendly, restrooms available, and limited parking.
I have been visiting this trail since I can remember. I can't tell you how many times I have hiked it!! And I love it every time still! Located conveniently right outside of town. Parking is easy (ugh cost $10 now a days).
Trail conditions & character
“It’s a relatively short hike with a steady incline, and the views along the way are absolutely stunning.”
“The parking lot is easy to access and has clean public restrooms, which is always a plus.”
“The trail offers a couple of options to navigate on, it encourages a trail direction to follow the suggested loop trails provided.”
“Highly recommend this hike for someone looking for a pretty hike with some elevation that can be completed in about an hour.”
“Trails are dog friendly, but there is limited to no shade and rattlesnakes.”
“It was hot (82°) and there's no shade (except at the keyhole) so bring hats, sunscreen and water.”
“The parking lot is easy to access and has clean public restrooms, which is always a plus.”
“Some in my group were fine with sneakers, but I appreciated that I brought my hiking boots and walking pole, as its rocky and rough in places.”
Plan your run at Devil's Backbone Open Space
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitelarimer.org
- Phone(970) 619-4570
Running trails near Loveland
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Devil's Backbone Trailhead
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