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Staunton State Park - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Outdoors - Other
1 Day Treks
Forests
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About Staunton State Park

Staunton State Park is a majestic 3,828-acre state park, which features towering cliffs, lush meadows, and a variety of wildlife, making it a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers. The park is also home to a number of historical sites, including an old mining town and a stagecoach stop. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including camping, picnicking, fishing, and bird watching. With its abundance of natural beauty and recreation opportunities.
Address : 12102 S Elk Creek Rd, Pine, CO 80470, USA

Things to Do at Staunton State Park

Staunton State Park is a nature lover's paradise, offering something for everyone to enjoy. The park includes over 35 miles of trails, which are perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. In addition, the park offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, and opportunities for wildlife watching. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking in one of the many scenic areas, or fishing in one of the three lakes. 


Top Activities Near Staunton State Park

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History of Staunton State Park

Staunton State Park is a state park in Colorado, USA. The park was established in 1978 and is located in Park County. It covers an area of 3,828 acres. The park has a variety of landscapes, including forested Mountains, Rocky Ridges, and Grasslands. There are also several lakes, including Bear Lake, which is the largest lake in the park. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, and predators such as bears and mountain lions. human history of the area dates back to the early 19th century when trappers and traders began to explore the region. In the late 19th century, homesteaders began to settle in the area. The park was established in 1978 to protect the unique landscapes and wildlife of the region. Today, the park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities.


Best Time to Visit Staunton State Park

Spring is the best time to visit Staunton State Park. The weather is mild and the scenery is beautiful as the wildflowers start to bloom. The trails are also less crowded at this time of year, so you can enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. Fall is also a great time to visit, as the leaves change color and the air becomes crisp and cool. 


Tips for Visiting Staunton State Park

  1. Get there early. The park opens at 5:00 a.m., and it gets crowded quickly. If you want to avoid the crowds, arrive early and head straight for the trailhead.
  2.  Pack plenty of water and snacks. There are no concessions available in the park, so be sure to pack enough water and food for your hike.
  3. Don't miss Elk Falls Overlook. This 1.2-mile hike provides stunning views of Elk Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Colorado.
  4. Explore several trails on your visit. There are more than 35 miles of trails available in Staunton State Park, so you can easily spend a day or two exploring all that the park has to offer.
  5.  Be bear aware - Bears are often active in the park, so be sure to store your food properly and make noise on the trails.
  6. Leave your pets at home - Pets are not allowed in the park for their safety and the safety of wild animals.
  7.  Dress for the weather: Staunton State Park is located at an elevation of 8,200 feet, so the temperatures can vary widely depending on the time of year. Be sure to dress in layers and bring a jacket, even if it doesn't look cold outside.

Interesting Facts and Trivias About Staunton State Park

  1. The park was named after Colonel James Staunton, who was killed in the Battle of Little Big Horn.
  2. The park is home to the largest colony of Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep in Colorado.
  3. There are over 35 miles of trails in the park, including 12 miles of off-road vehicle trails.
  4. Fishing is allowed in all of the park's lakes and ponds, and there is a catch-and-release program for trout.
  5.  The park has an extensive volunteer program that offers opportunities for people of all ages to get involved with park activities and events.
  6. In 2019, the park was designated as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association."With its commitment to preserving dark skies and educating visitors about stargazing," said Miller George,"the designation recognizes Staunton State Park as a leader in night sky conservation."
  7. The Park Visitor Center is open daily from 9am to 4pm and offers interpretive programs and exhibits about the natural history of the area.
     

How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Staunton State Park

For those looking to explore all that Staunton State Park has to offer, it is recommended to allow at least 3 days. With over 35 miles of trails varying in difficulty, there is something for everyone. 


How to Reach Staunton State Park

To reach the park, take Colorado Highway 67 south from Denver for about an hour. The park entrance will be on your left. 


Entrance Fee of Staunton State Park

The fee is $4 per person for a day pass, or $7 per car for a weekly pass. The entrance fee helps to maintain the park and its facilities. 


Opening Hours of Staunton State Park

The park is open year-round, and hours vary depending on the season. In the spring and summer, the park is open from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. In the fall, the park is open from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM. In the winter, the park is open from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM. 


Attractions Near Staunton State Park

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Staunton State ParkStaunton is Colorado's newest state park, offering breathtaking views, rich Colorado history, diverse plant and wildlife, rock climbing and several miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. It includes dramatic rock outcroppings, several streams and a waterfall. Staunton State Park's varied geology, soils, water features, and climate support rare and unexpected plant communities and a rich diversity of wildlife.
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Mason Creek Trail Mason Creek Trail is mostly smooth doubletrack with very moderate grades. About a half mile into the trail, you'll hike through a stunning aspen grove, which is worth the trip in and of itself. Soon the trail narrows, becomes rocky, and begins to follow a creek. The final few miles are relatively unremarkable doubletrack that terminates in the parking lot.
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Meyer Ranch ParkThis amazing place is considered to be the jewel in the crown of the Jefferson County. Hti beautiful park offers ​​​​​​​peaceful strolls through wildflower-laden meadows, lodgepole pine forests and aspen groves. Winter snow brings out cross country skiers and sledders to a hill overlooking U.S. Route 285.
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Mount BaileyMount Bailey is a mountain in Park County. The summit of the mountain is 12,943 feet above sea level and is the highest point in Park County. The mountain is located in the Mosquito Range, a subrange of the Rocky Mountains. The mountain is home to several hiking trails, as well as the remnants of an old mining town. The town, which was abandoned in the early 1900s, is now a popular destination for visitors to the mountain. Mount Bailey is a popular destination for both hikers and climbers.
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Evergreen MountainEvergreen Mountain lies in the southwest corner of the 1,128 acre Alderfer/Three Sisters Park, part of the Jefferson County Open Space. Accessible via an approximately 6-mile round-trip hike on excellent, well-signed trails and requiring about 1,100 feet of elevation gain, the Evergreen Mountain summit is attainable to a wide-spectrum of hikers.
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McGraw Memorial ParkMcGraw Memorial Park is a beautiful park located in Park County, Colorado. The park features a variety of amenities, including a playground, picnic tables, and a fishing pond. McGraw Memorial Park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and squirrels. Visitors to the park can enjoy a variety of activities, such as hiking, biking, and bird watching. In addition, the park offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Discover More Attractions in Park County, Home of Staunton State Park


Location of Staunton State Park


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