Hiking Staunton State Park
What a surprise! Want to start hiking? Staunton State Park will get you addicted to the trail. There is something for everyone, whether you are a mild hiker or an avid outdoor enthusiast.
Truly a Colorado Mountain experience with minimal crowds and an abundance of choices of hiking trails. Where to begin? A park ranger mentioned, “Mason Creek Trail”, was her favorite trail. She should know!
We spotted most hikers were heading to Elk Creek Falls (most popular) so we opted for Mason Creek Trail.
The beginning of the trail starts on a gentle path, but very soon you’ll find yourself on a steady uphill climb on more rocky terrain with a stream running down alongside you.
Several inlets off the trail lead to quaint spots to hang out by the water.
The deeper you go into the Park, you are surrounded by Ponderosa Pines and Aspens and the spectacular feel of being deep in the forest.
Hiking through the trees with the sunlight filtering through and a slight breeze was melancholy, peaceful.
The higher in elevation you hike, it just gets better and better. Taking the Bear Paw Loop off of Mason Creek Trail is a must-do. Catamount, Pikes Peak, and Eagle Cliff Outlooks on this loop are breathtaking with wrap around stunning views.
Tremendous rock outcroppings (Staunton Rocks) line the trail on the way down and the Old Mill Site was a treat to run into.
HIking through old restored cabins and passing a couple ponds brought us back to our car.
Another Colorado State Park, Mueller State Park, packed with hiking trails and known for spotting wildlife will have you yearning for your next hike…
Was an unexpected pleasant surprise, “Staunton State Park” and even a bit challenging.
TODAY’s HIKE: Mason Creek Trail, 4.5 mile loop, rated moderate and Bear Paw Trail, 2.3 mile loop, rated moderate. Looking forward to doing Elk Creek Falls Trail in the future. Click here for a Map of all the Hiking Trails within the Park.
LOCATED: Staunton State Park Address: 12102 S. Elk Creek Rd., Pine, CO 80470. Just minutes off of Hwy 285 South. 45 min. from Denver. 6 miles west of Conifer, CO.
TIDBITS
Hiking, mountain biking and equestrian friendly.
Dogs allowed on a leash
Colorado’s 41st State Park – opened 2013.
Park elevation ranges from 8100 ft to over 10,000 ft.
As of 2018, no camping, a new campground is under construction.
As of 2018, no Visitor Center, a new Visitor Center is under construction.
Not a hiker? Several picnic areas with small ponds and a number of short trails.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places as Staunton Ranch-Rural Historic Landscape.
HAPPY TRAILS!
That looks beautiful! I haven’t spent much time in Colorado, as I’m originally from MT and do a lot of adventuring there. I definitely want to check out your state sometime, though. I’m bookmarking this blog for future reference. Happy hiking! ~Riley
Ive been out wandering Colorado and am a bit late responding to your comment. Great to hear you may explore Colorado. MT looks dreamy and our hopes are to adventure there one day! Love your blog and thrilled to hear from you. Happy hiking back at cha! Connie