Devil's Backbone Open Space: Hunter Loop and Laughing Horse Loop

 Early this morning, I made the drive down to Colorado and arrived at Devil's Backbone just as the sun was rising. We've hiked at this location several times before on the Wild Loop to the Keyhole arch. However, I've always wanted to explore a little deeper into the open space and so today I set off on a hike of two loops on the north side: Hunter Loop and Laughing Horse.

I paid the parking fee (now via app) and set off on the trail in the early morning light. 

After a short hike on the Wild Loop, I set foot on a section of trail I had never been on before. I was able to observe a couple of mule deer.

From there I hiked the west half of the Hunter Loop and continued on to the Laughing Horse Loop,

 passing an area closed for golden eagle nesting,

and a couple impressive cottonwood trees.

I made it all the way to the start of the Indian Summer Trail

before making my way back to the trailhead. Along the way there were plenty of great views looking west to the high peaks.

I decided to stop at Weld Werks for a beer on the way home.