Staunton State Park is a major outdoor destination near the US-285 corridor, with meadows, granite formations, ponds, and longer waterfall routes. Before leaving, check Colorado Parks and Wildlife's official Staunton page for current hours, fees, parking, closures, trail conditions, and reservation requirements.
Why Staunton is the one to see
The park's natural-surface trail network crosses meadow, forest, and granite terrain. Many routes are multi-use, while others are hiking-only; check CPW's current trail information for mileage and permitted uses. CPW notes that wildflowers are abundant, although bloom timing varies.
The hike to do: Elk Falls
CPW lists the shortest Elk Falls Waterfall route, using Staunton Ranch, Bugling Elk, Chimney Rock, and Elk Falls trails, as 12 miles round trip, typically four to five hours, with about 1,200 feet of total elevation change. Start early, carry water, and confirm the current route and conditions before setting out.
Easy wins with kids
CPW lists Davis Ponds Trail as an easy, 2.3-mile hiking-only route. Fishing is allowed at the ponds, which CPW says are stocked with rainbow trout monthly from May through September; anglers 16 and older need a current Colorado fishing license. The park has an ADA-accessible fishing pier and asks visitors seeking an accessible weekday fishing experience to contact staff at least two days ahead. See our fishing page for more planning notes.
Climbing, archery, and the Track-Chair
CPW lists more than 400 climbing routes and seasonal climbing closures from March through July at Lion's Head and Rough Neck; check the live closure notice before climbing. The archery range has 17 lanes, 16 targets, and an optional 100-yard lane. Staunton's Track-Chair program serves designated trails; use is currently free, but a vehicle pass is required and visitors must check availability and request a reservation.
Planning the route
CPW directs drivers from US-285 at Shaffers Crossing north onto Elk Creek Road, then about 1.5 miles to the park entrance. Use CPW's directions and a current mapping service; no property-specific drive time should be published until the owner verifies it.
Entrance fees vary by plate and pass type, so check CPW's current fee table; entry may already be covered by a valid state-parks vehicle pass. The Lazy V lot can fill early on busy weekends, and parking there is not guaranteed. CPW currently lists park hours as 5 a.m.-10 p.m. and visitor-center hours as 8 a.m.-4 p.m. daily, but confirm before travel. Dogs must remain on a hand-held leash no longer than six feet, and owners must remove waste. Fall color and crowd levels vary.