Staunton State Park
Colorado

Staunton State Park

Denver, CO
Available Activities
  • Hiking
  • Camping
  • Fishing
  • Rock Climbing
  • Mountain Biking
  • Horseback Riding
  • Bird Watching
  • Biking

🏆 Official Guide: Staunton State ParkColorado’s Front Range gem — ~40 mi SW of Denver near Conifer/Pine — featuring ~30 miles of trails (hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding), 400+ rock climbing routes (5.3–5.13+) at Staunton Rocks, the stunning Elk Falls waterfall, Lion’s Head Overlook, the historic Staunton Ranch homestead, a Track-Chair accessibility program, fishing at Davis Ponds + Elk Falls Pond, tent camping, archery range, and abundant wildlife (elk, deer, bears, bobcats).

Staunton State Park is Colorado’s Front Range adventure playground — nearly 30 miles of trails winding through granite cliffs, conifer forests, aspen groves, and alpine meadows just 40 miles from Denver. With over 400 rock climbing routes, the iconic Elk Falls waterfall, and a pioneering Track-Chair program for visitors with disabilities, Staunton delivers both adrenaline and accessibility in equal measure.

Visitor Information

DetailInformation
Location12102 S. Elk Creek Rd, Pine, CO 80470
Distance~40 mi SW of Denver
Trails~30 miles — multi-use
Climbing Routes400+ — sport, trad, mixed (5.3–5.13+)
EntryCO Parks pass or entrance fee required

Activities

ActivityDetails
Hiking~30 mi — Elk Falls, Lion’s Head Overlook, Staunton Ranch
Rock Climbing400+ routes at Staunton Rocks (seasonal closures Mar–Jul at Lion’s Head)
Mountain BikingMulti-use trail network — varied difficulty
Horseback RidingDesignated equestrian trails
FishingDavis Ponds + Elk Falls Pond + streams — CO license required
CampingTent sites — some reservable, some first-come
ArcheryOn-site range
Track-Chair ProgramAll-terrain motorized wheelchair — accessibility for all
Wildlife ViewingElk, deer, bears, bobcats, raptors
💡 Pro Tip: Elk Falls is the park’s signature destination — a beautiful waterfall accessible via a moderate hike. The 400+ climbing routes at Staunton Rocks range from beginner (5.3) to expert (5.13+) — note that Lion’s Head and Rough Neck areas close March–July for raptor nesting. The Track-Chair program is outstanding — all-terrain motorized wheelchairs let visitors with disabilities explore trails that would otherwise be inaccessible. Don’t miss the historic Staunton Ranch homestead — the family donated this land to become Colorado’s newest state park.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there seasonal climbing closures?

Yes — Lion’s Head and Rough Neck climbing areas close from March through July to protect nesting raptors. Staunton Rocks and other areas remain open. Check Colorado Parks and Wildlife for current closure status.

What is the Track-Chair program?

Staunton offers all-terrain motorized wheelchairs (Track-Chairs) that allow visitors with mobility disabilities to explore the park’s trails. This pioneering accessibility program makes Staunton one of the most inclusive state parks in Colorado.

Sarah Mitchell

About the Author

Outdoor Editor & Trail Expert

Sarah Mitchell is an outdoor writer and trail researcher with over 8 years of experience exploring state parks across America. As the lead editor at AmericasStateParks.org, she has personally visited more than 200 parks in 42 states, logging thousands of trail miles and hundreds of campground nights. Sarah specializes in detailed park guides, accessibility information, and family-friendly outdoor planning. Her work focuses on helping first-time visitors feel confident and well-prepared for their state park adventures.

200+ state parks visited across 42 states | 8+ years of outdoor writing

Last updated: May 16, 2026

Park Location

Denver, CO