Frozen Elk Falls Pond (4/30/23)
Davis Ponds Loop Trail
Davis Ponds Loop Trail
Davis Ponds Loop Trail
For some reason, I thought this rock was really cool :)
Brittany B.
Jan 12, 2025
We love this park! Code enough to the city for a quick hike with a few different trails to choose from. Mostly respectful folks keeping those furry friends on a leash and following the 'pack-in-pack-out' etiquette, always friendly rangers, and clean bathrooms to use before or after your adventuring - at any of the parking lots you choose to use. How fortunate we are to have this park!
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David G.
Jul 20, 2023
Fantastic State Park relatively close to Denver.Great facilities: Parking, restrooms, trails.Stunning views.Great place for a picnic too!
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Mary Jo S.
Jul 18, 2023
The husband and I spent the day fishing/photographing and hiking at Staunton State Park. This was my first visit to this 10-year-old state park. We first drove the main roads of the park checking our horse trailer parking and camping sites. We then hiked to Davis Pond #1 and #2 so the husband could fish. I walked around the ponds and across the spillway enjoying the beauty of this park. This really is a hidden gem. Most importantly, Staunton State Park makes previously challenging outdoor activities a reality for members of the public with mobility impairments by offering a Track-Chair program. The park has have multiple Track-Chairs and trails designated for the program, which is available free of charge to visitors.
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Bill M.
Oct 27, 2022
What a great place to hike/sightsee! I've been there twice in the last month and have hiked up to views that include Pikes peak. No part is too tough for most people in good health (I'm a 69-year old with perhaps a hint of more weight than I need ). The cost to enter the park is minimal, at $10 a car. Both times, upon leaving just before dusk I've spotted herds of deer and/or Elk. If you plan on going up to any of the major lookouts, park at the farthest/newest lot, and count on about 4 hours. Bring water - you won't want to drink out of the creeks!
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Carly W.
Aug 11, 2021
Opening its gates in 2013, Staunton State Park is Colorado's youngest State Park. However, its young age doesn't mean it has any less beauty to offer those who visit! This summer I've been making it a mission to get outside as much as possible, so with my sights set on Staunton, I made my way there for a Friday morning adventure.ACTIVITY: There's something for everyone here! Rock climb? Yep! Mountain Bike? You bet! Hiking? Duh! Trail running? Sure, if you're into that sort of thing. Seeking a hike to challenge myself, I decided to make my way to Elk Falls. I opted to Follow Staunton Ranch Trail, to Bugling Elk, to Chimney Rock Trail, To Elk Falls Trail - making an out-and-back totaling 10.95 miles. You can make part of the trail a loop by taking Marmot Passage from Elk Falls Pond, which only adds about 1 mile or so. 'Cause who doesn't love a good loop.NATURE VISTAS: From wildflowers, to waterfalls, to trees, to mushrooms, and all the rock formations - there's bound to be something that catches your eye. Or if you're like me - it all will! Staunton State Park was definitely putting on a show. With all the rain we had earlier this year - the wildflowers were on point!AMENITIES: The trailhead features several vaulted toilets, picnic benches, ample parking, and an amphitheater. There are several porto-pottys and vaulted toilets along the trails too!COST: Since Staunton State Park is part of the Colorado State Park system, there is an entrance fee of $11.Staunton State Park was a most excellent way to get my Friday morning nature fix. I'll definitely be back to check out more of its trails!**Pro Tip: I highly recommend getting there early! While there are some shady areas, the majority of the trails I took were exposed, and the early afternoon heat was brutal.
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Nicole R.
Mar 3, 2023
Beautiful state park with gorgeous views and trails for all levels. Can't wait to check out the visitor center next time around. Worth the annual park pass fee.
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Matt C.
Jul 8, 2020
Elk Falls should be added to your Colorado bucket list. I'll wait. Officially added? Great, let's ramble on! This is one of my new favorite places within an hour of Denver. I solely found Staunton State Park on Yelp. Not once in my year of living here have I heard anyone recommend it. Well it's time to change that!I started at the Staunton Ranch trailhead at 7:30am on a Friday morning. Here's the route I took (and totally encourage): Staunton Ranch, Bugling Elk, Chimney Rock, Elk Falls. Round trip it's just shy of 12 miles. I'd rate it as moderate, though the distance might cause fatigue for some. However, talk about a beautiful hike throughout! Since I started early, I saw seven deer in total, even a baby one. They'll get pretty close to you, especially on the Staunton Ranch trail. I love the rock formations, the lush trees, and the slight incline on this trail. Bugling Elk is probably the most boring stretch, however you'll discover a bathroom. Talk about clutch! This leads you to Elk Falls Pond, which is where many people conclude their adventure. Though pretty in its own right, you have to keep trucking! Now you could go to an overlook of Elk Falls. In my opinion, why look at them when you can touch them instead? Listen to this, I was the ONLY PERSON at Elk Falls. For 30 minutes. Talk about solitude and complete appreciation for our unparalleled state. The views are so worth it and the perfect spot for a well-earned snack. Parking pass will run you $9 like most state parks in Colorado. Staunton and Eldorado Canyon are my two favorite state parks. Wonderful and challenging hikes with views that encompass why I love living here.
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Alisa J.
May 26, 2022
Great park with good and well maintained trails! Ample parking and not too crowded. I will be back to try other trails. The picture shows views from the Staunton Ranch and Bugling Elk loop
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Michael N.
Jul 19, 2023
All the employees are very helpful. Go on weekdays if possible it's very busy on weekends. A lit different things to see at this park. the visitor center is very nice when it's open. All the bathrooms are always very clean.
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Ralph S.
May 24, 2023
Fun trails, hiking easy access and cool little lake . It's our neighborhood gem. Close to Denver
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