Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Staunton State Park

    4.3 (64 reviews)
    Open 6:00 am - 10:00 pm

    Staunton State Park Photos

    Recommended Reviews - Staunton State Park

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Jerilyn A.

    This was a beautiful place for a hike! Well maintained, clean, and a few potties on the trail. We learned the hard way that you want to be able to park in the LazyV parking lot but you have to get there pretty early for that! And if someone asks if you're ready for an all day hike to get to the waterfall or overlook, they're not exaggerating.

    Karolina N.

    Beautiful state park - especially in the fall. Lots of hiking and rock climbing, what more could one want? :) parking lots fill up quick on the weekends so get there early!

    Damon D.

    The Staunton State Park has so much to offer. From its breathtaking views to wonderful trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding, tent camping and tons of rock climbing. Not to mention an archery range. If you want to see some Colorado wildlife they have this too, wild turkeys, coyotes, deer, elk and an occasional moose. The Staff is amazing and so helpful when you check in providing detailed information about the park along with Free Maps. The Gift Shop has many things to commemorate your visit.

    David G.

    Fantastic State Park relatively close to Denver. Great facilities: Parking, restrooms, trails. Stunning views. Great place for a picnic too!

    Elevation 9500 ft. Pikes Peak in the background
    Bill M.

    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!

    Carly W.

    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.

    Beautiful trails for all hiking ability
    Mary Jo S.

    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.

    Nicole R.

    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.

    Take Chimney Rock Trail to Elk Falls
    Matt C.

    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.

    Alisa J.

    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

    Caity A.

    We headed to Staunton State park early Monday morning with our pup. We had a perfect 10.5 mile hike up to the Old Mill and around, and saw less than 5 people walking along the trail, and a couple of mountain bikers. We started near the horse trailer parking, and headed up the Mason Creek Trail, and it took us about 4 hours. I was happy we started early, because there are long stretches without much shade. We wouldn't have taken the longer route with the overlooks, but part of the mason Creek trail was closed for restoration, so we had no choice. I am so grateful for that closure, because the views from the overlook of Pike's Peak and the state park itself are beautiful. After minimal scrambling, the Eagle's Cliffs Overlook was a great place for a snack with a view. I highly recommend this park and this hike!

    Melanie T.

    This was my first state park since living in Colorado. I am a beginner when it comes to hikes so I prefer trails that are flat. I decided to visit Staunton State Park after comparing levels of difficulty with other parks. The park is pleasant and refreshing from the city life. This park is great for small dogs and parents with young children. The path do the pond was easy because the hike was mainly flat. There is another path called Masons Creek. That path contains rocks and different levels of up and down hills. In the fall and winter season, it does tend to get muddy or icy. Be careful on that. Otherwise, the hike on Masons Creek is next to a stream. For me personally, it's relaxing to listen to the sound of running water. There are also plenty of picnic areas. So don't be afraid to bring you own food. There are bathrooms located near the parking area and the pond.

    Beautiful day at Staunton!
    Claire G.

    I just love this park. What a gem. It is scenic, only 45 minutes from Denver, and big enough to find your own piece of peace. There are trails easy enough for toddlers and difficult enough to challenge expert hikers. I love the fact that they have both shared use and hiking only trails. I love the fact that the trails are well-marked. I love the fact that it's clean. I love the fact that I have a state parks pass and don't have to pay the day use fee. Regardless if you are a hiker, mountain biker, climber, camper, or horseback rider, this gorgeous park has stuff that will interest you.

    Davis Ponds Loop

    See all

    Photo of M V.
    0
    45
    1

    12 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of SJ E.
    1
    31
    0

    13 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of A B.
    0
    6
    7

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Gerard G.
    29
    217
    50

    12 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ray S.
    30
    15
    0

    6 years ago

    Love this park. It's always gorgeous and has great hikes for all ages. My 7 year old enjoys fishing at Davis ponds!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Evan S.
    2
    65
    15

    12 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Chad M.
    129
    349
    39

    10 years ago

    Great park. The trails are fun and the view are amazing. I strongly suggest visiting Fat biking, mountain biking or hiking

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Great trails that offer a very scenic and peaceful walk. Close to home so I like to get there early to avoid the crowds.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of D W.
    50
    76
    3

    12 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 2 of 2

    Ask the Community - Staunton State Park

    Review Highlights - Staunton State Park

    I hiked Staunton Ranch, to Old Mill, to Border Line, to the Border Line Overlook, and back down Staunton Ranch.

    Mentioned in 4 reviews

    Read more highlights

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Hiking 291 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    AVA Rafting & Zipline - Upper Clear Creek

    AVA Rafting & Zipline

    4.6(447 reviews)
    18.3 mi

    The zip lines at AVA were super fun and the people are really nice. We had Megan and Blake as our…read moreinstructors, they were so funny and helped us have lots of fun on the zip lines. We rode on top of a truck up a mountain to the first line. AVA is so funny and I would definitely recommend doing it if you have time!

    My group and I had a disappointing and confusing experience with a zip-line instructor. We had…read morebarely left the first tutorial line when one of our instructors began acting rude and short with us. We only made it halfway through our group before one of us got stuck on the second line. It took a few minutes to get them unstuck and over to the other side. After that, with no warning, the instructor told us to follow him and said we were going to hike back to the rest of the group. When I asked if something was wrong, he gave me no response. Once we rejoined the other half of our group, our other guide explained that our trip was being cancelled and that we'd need to hike back down. This was shocking and disappointing to all of us--especially the children in our party, who had travelled from out of state and specifically picked this zip-line as the thing they most wanted to do in Colorado. It wasn't worth the long drive just to get up there and have the plug pulled on us with no explanation. I will say the front desk was very kind and helpful. After hearing our account of what happened, they issued us a full refund. Overall, it was a disappointing trip that left all of us confused about what went wrong.

    Photos
    AVA Rafting & Zipline
    AVA Rafting & Zipline - Upper Clear Creek

    Upper Clear Creek

    AVA Rafting & Zipline - Blue River

    See all

    Blue River

    AVA Rafting & Zipline - Mom zip lining at 69 years young !! And loving every minute of it !!

    AVA Rafting & Zipline

    4.7(62 reviews)
    35.3 mi

    Obviously everyone's trip experience is going to be in different. But ours was fantastic. We are a…read morefamily of 4, a 10yo Bo with lots of energy and a 12 yo girl with not so much. It's definitely a large operation. Check in for us involved a 100 people or so. But they've got it down. Don't plan to bring much/anything with you honestly. You can choose wet suits, dry jackets etc... It was 75 degrees in July here so our family split between wet suits and dry jackets. The latter was the better choice. You take a 30 minute school bus ride and some quick safety instructions (thanks Erico!) And then get assigned to your boat. Ours included 8 of us and a guide. Honestly that was too much but okay. Our guide was Tristan who was fantastic. Funny and engaging with fun facts along the way. But more importantly you could tell he was taking safety seriously. We did the browns canyon ride and it was a good mix of slightly challenging for the kids and fun for the adults. All in all it was a great way to spend half a day!

    Guides: Tim & Colleen *We went in August*…read more - W H A T T O E X P E C T - We booked ahead of time, online, for the "Cliffside Zipline Half Day" in Idaho Springs. They have multiple locations and have similar and different activities that you can do at each location. When we arrived we walked in through the building on the right (it looks like a store), and checked in. After checking in, we had to wait for a bit until our guides were ready. Once they were, we went into the building to the left and received our gear. For the ziplining portion, our equipment was a harness and a helmet. *Each of the helmets has cute and/or funny names, definitely spend the time and look through the names. For example: They have an adult one that says: Potato and a child one that says: Little Tater Once we were all put on our equipment, our guides, Tim & Colleen, double-checked to make sure we each had our equipment on correctly and securely. Snug, but not too snug. After checking our equipment, Tim started to read a disclaimer and some rules to follow while we were up on the zipline. Heads up: - NOTHING IN YOUR POCKETS IS SAFE - If you have any glasses or hats, leave them in your car. Wear contacts if you have to, or put the little ropes that can be connected to your glasses to catch them in case they fall off your face. - There is a wooden board with hooks to hang your car keys. They assured us that hanging the keys there are safe. There is only one road, and anyone that tries to steal a vehicle won't get very far down the one road before a police officer stops them. :) You are ziplining on the cliffside of the mountain. If you do not have pockets that zip/button closed, don't put anything in them. If anything falls down the cliff, no one is going to go and get it. It's too dangerous. Personally, I had prepared and worn my contacts - but I will probably wear glasses with the ropes next time. We went in August, and it was still chilly in the mountains. Some of the ziplines go pretty fast, so my eyes would water. I had a jacket with zipper pockets, so I was the designated picture taker in my group. I was able to keep my phone safe by putting it in my zipper pocket. After going through safety and the disclaimer, we jumped onto the bed of a truck, clipped ourselves in, and road all the way up to the mountain. After you get off the truck, there is a narrow trail you have to take to get to the first platform. It is a dirt trail, and it's on the side of the mountain. Important... don't be stupid. :) I'm personally terrified of falling from tall heights, so I had to take my time and not look down to my right. It was fine, it wasn't dangerous. It's just one of my greatest fears. (Hence facing them by ziplining!) - E X P E R I E N C E - If you can request two guides... Request Tim & Colleen! It is very apparent how much they love their job. Tim was the main guide, he has been doing this job for a very long time. They both made the whole experience so much fun. Their excitement, personalities, and overall energy made this a very unique and memorable experience. They were silly and fun, while still making sure we all were and felt safe. We are hoping to come back and be able to ask for both of them again. :) - P A R K I N G - They have plenty of parking spaces in their lot, the parking is a bit rough though - so be careful when driving in and out of the parking lot. - O V E R A L L - We all had a great experience, Colleen & Tim We had 5 people in our group, two of us had ziplined before, and three of us were doing it for the first time. It was an absolutely amazing time and I can't wait to do it again.

    Photos
    AVA Rafting & Zipline - Niece zip lining !!

    Niece zip lining !!

    AVA Rafting & Zipline - Nephew zip lining

    Nephew zip lining

    AVA Rafting & Zipline

    See all

    Staunton State Park - hiking - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...