🌤 Weather at Staunton State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16–59 °F | 38–75 °F | 16–66 °F | 9–36 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Grant, 15 mi away, elevation 8,675 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
The park itself ranges from about 8,040 to 10,060 ft in elevation — higher ground runs cooler than the figures above.
🏆 Staunton State Park — Colorado’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
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | 12102 S. Elk Creek Rd, Pine, CO 80470 |
| Distance | ~40 mi SW of Denver |
| Trails | ~30 miles — multi-use |
| Climbing Routes | 400+ — sport, trad, mixed (5.3–5.13+) |
| Entry | CO Parks pass or entrance fee required |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Hiking | ~30 mi — Elk Falls, Lion’s Head Overlook, Staunton Ranch |
| Rock Climbing | 400+ routes at Staunton Rocks (seasonal closures Mar–Jul at Lion’s Head) |
| Mountain Biking | Multi-use trail network — varied difficulty |
| Horseback Riding | Designated equestrian trails |
| Fishing | Davis Ponds + Elk Falls Pond + streams — CO license required |
| Camping | Tent sites — some reservable, some first-come |
| Archery | On-site range |
| Track-Chair Program | All-terrain motorized wheelchair — accessibility for all |
| Wildlife Viewing | Elk, deer, bears, bobcats, raptors |
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.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Chatfield State Park (within about an hour’s drive) or Roxborough State Park (within about an hour’s drive).
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Colorado state parks online at cpwshop.com.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Staunton State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Dogs are welcome at Colorado state parks and most trails and campgrounds when kept on a leash, though some trails restrict dogs.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash not exceeding 6 feet required at all times.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- It is unlawful to allow a dog or other pet within any area used as a swimming or water-ski beach.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Some parks offer pet-friendly cabins and yurts (e.g. Golden Gate Canyon, State Forest, Mancos and Ridgway yurts) for a $10 per night pet fee.
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No day-use pet fee; $10 per night pet fee in participating pet-friendly cabins/yurts.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Designated off-leash dog areas at Chatfield and Cherry Creek State Parks (registration/fee applies).
Are dogs allowed at Staunton State Park?
Dogs are welcome at Colorado state parks and most trails and campgrounds when kept on a leash, though some trails restrict dogs. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via cpw.state.co.us. More: Colorado state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Staunton State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
