Hiking – Blue Sky TH to Devil's Backbone Open Space

We will meet at the JJ's Corner Store parking lot (east edge), 4015 S. Taft Hill Rd., Fort Collins at 8:00 a.m. to carpool to the Blue Sky trailhead (which is 5.5 miles west from here on Co. Rd. 38E).  Both trailheads require a Larimer County permit (or $10 daily fee),    

This scenic one-way hike is one of the leader's favorites along the "hogback" rock formation of our foothills.  We will begin our hike from the Blue Sky trailhead at the south end of Horsetooth Reservoir and enjoy the panoramic valley views as we ascend and descend throughout this 9-mile route.  We will stop for lunch about half way along the route, before ascending to a lookout point in the Devil's Backbone Open Space.  Be prepared for some fairly rocky terrain.  Once we check out the "keyhole" and finally reach the Devil's Backbone trailhead in Loveland, the leaders will have two cars parked there for carpooling back to JJ's and the Blue Sky TH.  There are restrooms at both trailheads.  Bring your essentials, lunch, water, sturdy hiking boots, and poles.  This will be a fun way to burn a few calories after Thanksgiving!