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Hike Trail

Backbone

4.0 (2 Ratings)
A flowing trail that connects Lil' Rattler to Sand Dunes and Cottonwood.
1.7
mi
Distance
102
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
ViewsWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
1.67mi
Distance
102ft
Elevation Gain
159ft
Elevation Loss
30%
Max Grade
7,537ft
High Point
7,409ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
The Backbone trail rolls above the Arkansas River and the town of Salida, just behind S Mountain. It connects Lil' Rattler to Sand Dunes, and Cottonwood, before it makes its way towards Sweet Dreams.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

Nearby Hike Routes

North Backbone Out-and-Back

Classic Hike Route

North Backbone Out-and-Back

Views
strenuous
6.11 mi
+529 ft
Sand Dunes - Pano Loop

Classic Hike Route

Sand Dunes - Pano Loop

Geologically Significant
strenuous
3.09 mi
+821 ft
S-Mountain via Backside

Classic Hike Route

S-Mountain via Backside

Historical
moderate
1.89 mi
+485 ft
S-Mountain via Frontside

Classic Hike Route

S-Mountain via Frontside

Family Friendly
moderate
3.33 mi
+492 ft
Rise-n-Shine - Frontside Loop

Classic Hike Route

Rise-n-Shine - Frontside Loop

Family Friendly
moderate
6.84 mi
+780 ft
Cottonwood Gulch to Rumba Ridge Viewpoint

Classic Hike Route

Cottonwood Gulch to Rumba Ridge Viewpoint

Views
strenuous
11.46 mi
+1,944 ft
Contributors
Elvis Riggs