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More technical than strenuous, some very rocky sections.


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Map Key

13.2

Miles

21.3

KM

100%

Singletrack

5,792' 1,765 m

High

5,080' 1,548 m

Low

1,238' 377 m

Up

1,234' 376 m

Down

4%

Avg Grade (2°)

22%

Max Grade (12°)

Dogs Leashed

E-Bikes Not Allowed

Overview

Just West of Loveland off of 34, this trail is an interesting diversion. It follows a hogback, and some of the trail is build on layers of off-camber, crumbling sedimentary rock.

You'll ride Indian Summer and Blue Sky on this loop as well.

2022 update: There used to be no fee for access. Starting in 2022, there is a daily fee of $10. This is now the same as a number of other Larimer County parks. Larimer County annual passes are available. larimer.org/naturalresource…

Description

Devils Backbone Trail starts as an easy gradual climb from the free parking area north of Highway 34. Go around the footbridges using the bypass trails and travel through a fence. The trail continues to climb with a few small rock obstacles.

Stay to the right at the first split (hikers only to the left). Stay to the right where the trails meet back up and climb a steep hill with a few switchbacks and water bars. Most riders will have to push up a few of the technical sections.

3/4 of the way up the climb the trail splits. Stay to the right (hikers and horses to the left) and the trails rejoin in 1/2 a mile or so. The trail then turns into a gradual climb with a few rocky sections.

The trail splits again at around mile 2.5. Both trails are very rocky however the trail to the right (east) is more difficult and will require most riders to push a few sections. The trails meet back up after 1/2 mile or so and climb to the top of the ridge.

You'll then ride a portion of Blue Sky. This trail is less technical, and flows very well. Most riders will thoroughly enjoy this fun section of the ride. Finally, you'll hook up with Indian Summer loop. This one is also smoother singletrack with less extreme pitch - great for intermediate riders.

Once you round the loop, you'll head back down and retrace your steps.

Contacts

Shared By:

Wendy Sweet with improvements by Emma McVey and 2 others

Trail Ratings

  3.8 from 85 votes

#211

Overall
  3.8 from 85 votes
5 Star
19%
4 Star
49%
3 Star
26%
2 Star
4%
1 Star
2%
Recommended Route Rankings

#70

in Colorado

#211

Overall
94 Views Last Month
20,194 Since Nov 20, 2013
Difficult Difficult

0%
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15%
12%
72%
1%

Photos

The view facing east.
Jul 20, 2013 near Loveland, CO
Lots to be said for a morning ride out to Indian Summer.
Jul 23, 2016 near Loveland, CO
Steep chunky love
Aug 2, 2017 near Loveland, CO
Nice view right before sundown
Apr 19, 2018 near Loveland, CO
Fun downhill on Devil's Backbone Loop trail!
Apr 19, 2015 near Loveland, CO
Devil's Backbone Loop is a must-do FoCo ride!
Jan 29, 2017 near Loveland, CO
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Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 77 days ago
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