Devil's Backbone Nature Trail – Mountain Bike Trail

The Devil's Backbone Nature Trail is an intermediate-level trail that lives up to its name due to how rocky it is, especially on the climbs. From the outside, it looks like rolling hills that you can just zip through, and while there are some sections of that, it doesn't paint an accurate picture of what you'll get once you're on the trail. Fortunately, it is well-maintained and well-marked, and even novices who don't mind getting off the bike when a climb gets too difficult can enjoy this out and back. Also, the views here are amazing.

Before you go:

Drinking water

Restrooms

Fee required

Lift service

Fat bike grooming

Family Friendly

Night riding

E-bikes allowed

Dogs Allowed

Obstacles

Shuttles

Detailed Trail Description

The Devil's Backbone Nature Trail is near Loveland, Colorado, and to get there, you'll need to go west on Highway 34. A few miles past Jamoka Joe's coffee shop, just next to the highway, you'll turn north onto Hidden Valley Drive. The trailhead should be on your left. From here, given its out-and-back configuration, you'll ride your bike to the other end of the trail and then double back.

At the beginning of the trail, there are plenty of loose rocks to contend with, and this section is relatively easy to get through. Once you get into the hills, you encounter small sustained gradients that may not be enough to make you sweat. However, there are plenty of jagged rocks jutting out of the path, which makes these sections fairly technical.

The fast declines on the other ends of these rocky climbs feature pretty much the same type of terrain, with small ledges and plenty of small drops being the order of the day. As such, full suspension and adjustable seat bike posts may help keep you comfortable throughout the trail.

The trail gets more and more intense the deeper you go, but nothing an intermediate-level rider can't get through. Some other trail features include fast switchbacks and the occasional rock obstacle that will require you to hike with your bike to get through.

This trail also incorporates a section of the Hunter Loop trail, and here if you go left, the rocks in your path will be angled against you, making the ride more challenging. Those who don't mind a challenge can ignore this bit of information.

There's little shade to protect you from the sun, so go early in the morning and carry plenty of water. The trail is also quite popular, so going early reserves you a spot. However, if you find the parking lot full, the trail is usually at capacity, and you'd likely have more fun at a different location.

Most of the trail is multi-use, so expect to come across hikers, joggers, leashed dogs, etc. There are some sections of trail in the Open Space that you should avoid, such as the Wild Loop, that's only meant for hikers.

Fortunately, the entire Devil's Backbone Nature Trail is well-marked, so there's little chance of getting lost.

You will have to pay for parking. Also, a few trail users have come across rattlesnakes, so be aware of that as you take on the rocky trail.

Sights of Interest, Landscapes, Views

The Devil's Backbone Open Space is a beautiful landscape in its own right, and you can take in the beauty around you while on the trail.

Recommendations/Precautions:

• Watch out for rattlesnakes while on the trail
• There's a water station at the trailhead.
• You'll need to pay for parking, so carry cash.