Staunton - The Newest State Park

When one thinks about the many venues of natural beauty Colorado offers, there is a new spot you might consider adding to your list of places to visit.  That place is Staunton State Park.


View from trail of one of a number of rock outcroppings at Staunton State Park.


It is the wonderful legacy of Frances H. Staunton, whose parents homesteaded the site around the turn of the 20th century.  They established Staunton Ranch and over the years, expanded it from 160 to 1,720 acres.


Hikers make the gradual climb from the trailhead into the park.

Easy to get to, the park is off of US Highway 285 (Hampden Avenue) south of Shaffers Crossing, about 6 miles west of Conifer.  After the brown state park sign, turn right on Elk Creek Road and follow signs 1.5 miles to the park entrance.

Penny and Monica are deep in conversation on Staunton Ranch Trail.

Frances loved the land, maintaining it in its natural condition throughout her life.  Before her death in 1989, Frances donated it to future generations as a state park.  In her will, she required the land "...be preserved, in perpetuity, for public benefit, as a natural wilderness-type park...' typical of Colorado's beautiful landscape.  We are indebted to Francis Staunton for her exceptional gift.

The head of a Crock, or a turtle? 

The park is a collection of low grasslands, rocky foothills, soaring granite cliffs, and lush stream corridors.  Dramatic Elk Falls drops almost 300 feet into North Elk Creek and spectacular Lions Head stands tall as the park's rocky sentry.

Although Staunton Ranch is the main tract, acquisitions expanded the park to about 3,800 acres.  Development activities can be seen throughout the park over the next few years as work crews complete picnic areas, access roads, and refine the trail system.


Hikers maneuver along a rock ledge on Scout Line Trail.

Grassy meadows at 8,100' to soaring granite cliffs over 10,000' speak to the parks geology, soils, water features and climate to create a rich variety of habitats.

Mixed conifer forests provide elk in the park prime grazing.  Wet meadows support plant and wildlife communities and contribute to the health of the watershead. 


View from Scout Line Trail.

The park offers visitors picnicking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, biking, horseback riding and rock climbing.  Overnight camping will be allowed at a future date.

Trails will take you to a time in history as you visit the Staunton Cabin District.  Take the family on a nature walk to Davis Ponds.  Ride your bike or horse to the Old Mill Site or Elk Falls Overlook.


Return to the trailhead.

Today 13 members of the High Country Hiker group had the opportunity to enjoy Staunton State Park first hand.  Beginning at the parking lot, the group began on Staunton Ranch Trail, to a junction with Scout Line Trail, and on to the junction with Marmot Passage Trail, leading us back to Staunton Ranch Trail, and completing the loop.

At mid-day, a nice rock outcropping on the slope just off trail, provided ample room for each member to choose a spot, however private they wanted, to sit, relax, have lunch, and enjoy the surrounding landscape.

On the way back to Aurora, Ed stopped in Golden for hikers choice...ice cream, yogurt, and/or a cup of java before heading for the city.

High Country Hikers (Seated L to R) Marsha, Sara, Linda, and Penny.  Standing (L to R) Robert, Dave, Monica, Gary1, Kathy, Mary Kay, John, and hike leader/driver, Ed.

Total Miles Completed: 6.1

Next week:  Maxwell Falls Trail at Evergreen.  This hike is rated as moderate in terms of difficulty, and is just under 5 miles long.  Although shorter than some scheduled hikes this year, this one may be another diamond in the rough this season.  Remember to pack a lunch, a light outer shell for protection from rain, and adequate drinking water.  Call the Aurora Center for Active Adults (ACAA) at 303-739-7950 today to register.