Check out Mason Creek and Staunton Ranch Trail Loop from our previous trip to Staunton State Park.
Last time at Staunton we explored the north west portion of the trails. This time we went more east to get to Elk Falls Pond. This time around we had 1,574 feet of elevation gain compared to 1,030 feet on the previous loop. We also went an extra 1.8 miles for a total of 8.8 miles this time!
The beginning of this loop is the same as the previous, but when you get to Old Mill Road you continue straight on Staunton Ranch Trail. Then, you go up and take a left on to Marmot Passage Trail which will lead you up a ridge and through to Elk Falls Pond.
We ate some lunch at one of the benches around the pond then headed to Bulging Elk Trail which will eventually loop back up to Staunton Ranch Trail.
This loop has it all. Steep inclines, some switch backs, rocky trails, dirt trails, flatter portions of trail to get a break, steady slow inclines, views, nature, and more! We highly recommend this loop if you are looking for a 5 to 10 mile long day hike near Denver!
Check out the hike stats:
| Distance | 8.8 Miles |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Duration | 4.5 Hours |
| Trail Type | Loop |
| Elevation Gain (ft) | 1,574 |
| Peak Elevation (ft) | 9,358 |
| Trailhead Location | https://goo.gl/maps/g1dCs7X7ppdN91kY9 |
| Parking | Lot With Bathrooms |
| Town Nearest Hike | Pine, Colorado |
| Fee | State Park Entrance Fee |
| Date Hiked | 11/5/21 |
Really Good Hiking 