Devil's Backbone is a great technical trail that offers some very rocky, technical terrain. While it has limited mileage in its lollipop loop, it serves as one of the gateways for the Blue Sky Trail which connects Coyote Ridge, Devil's Backbone and Horsetooth Mountain Park which creates opportunities to make huge loops.

Trail Description

The trail starts with a couple of steep climbs, but then levels out to more gradual and rolling terrain as you make your way along the northern edge of the rocky formation the trail inherits its name from. As you turn north, heading away from the backbone, you'll see the first major climb of the day, aptly dubbed "Heart attack hill".

The trail ascends quickly from this point, with steep rocky pitches for almost a mile. Once this climb is completed though you'll have conquered the majority of the climbing for a loop.

Take a right turn at the intersection and climb the rocky hill. The terrain remains rocky, but less technical as you make your way towards the back loop. The back loop features several very technical sections that will challenge most riders. The back loop also leads you to the Blue Sky Trail, which heads north to Horsetooth for even more technical trails.

Getting There

Devil's Backbone is located on the western edge of Loveland. Take I-25 to Loveland, then travel west on Highway 34 through town until you see the signs for Devil's Backbone open space.

When to Bike

All season riding available, although the summer months are very hot and exposed so try to go early before the heat of the day.

Elevation Profile

An elevation graph from a single lollipop loop.

Google Earth View

Google Earth view of a single lollipop loop.