Loveland CO: Colorado Front Range; NOCO Hike at the Devil’s Backbone

Time:
-
Location:
1725 Hidden Valley Drive, Loveland. More info
Calendar:

Event Contact Name Mark

Event Contact Email coloradofrontrange@americanpilgrims.org

This trail offers unique geology, abundant wildlife and gorgeous views!  It is a 4.5 mile out & back tail with about 600 feet of elevation gain.  After a short but fairly steep uphill, we will arrive at a rolling plateau where we will have some awesome views of the Colorado foothills that includes a view of Long’s Peak in the distance. The Devil’s Backbone is one of the Hogbacks that is made up of hard Dakota sandstone from the Cretaceous Period, 145 to 65 million years ago (at the same time as T. rex!)  This is a multi-use trail used by runners, hikers and mountain bikers.  Be prepared and dress for the weather with layers, rain gear, a hat, water and a snack.  There is a restroom at the trailhead.
If you are a first time pilgrim leaving on Camino in 2026, be sure to request a “mini-shell” ceremony on the sign-up form….(A donativo is requested for the shell to help us cover our costs.  Thank you for your generosity!)
This is the time of year when we can have abrupt weather changes….so be sure to sign up in case we need to make changes to the date of the hike!

Remember: No dogs are allowed due to American Pilgrims on the Camino policy!

What you Need to Know:
What:  A 4.5 mile out & back hike in the Devil’s Backbone Open Space.  See AllTrails map: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/devils-backbone-nature-trail   See Open Space map: https://drive.google.com/file/d/16TiSN3yobPaXvOvG850T2cQ7ldymAADq/view?usp=sharing
Where:  Devil’s Backbone Open Space, 1725 Hidden Valley Drive, Loveland, CO 80538 See parking map:
When:  Saturday, October 24th, 2026 meet at the trailhead parking lot at 9:00 AM MDT
Register/Sign-Up: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeUwIu2oNwCJ6HYF_ZEqgsTd6b6XY534l-2YBedRCJVxBfnAg/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=112126544757183003236
Questions: Call/Text Mark Oberschmidt at 970-980-3557
Cost:  There is a $10 fee to access this trailhead, and you will need a credit card to pay. If you know someone who is also attending the hike, please consider carpooling.
And, also what you purchase to eat and drink post-hike at a TBD location!