STAUNTON ROCKS OVERLOOK @ STAUNTON STATE PARK + LUNCH & LIVE MUSIC IN CONIFER!

From high grassy meadows at 8,100 feet to soaring granite cliffs over 10,000 feet, Staunton State Park's varied geology, soils, water features, and climate support a rare and unexpected variety of plant life and a rich diversity of wildlife. Staunton opened to the public on May 18, 2013, and is located about 40 miles southwest of Denver, north of US Hwy. 285 and about six miles west of Conifer, in Pine, CO.

• We'll hike the Staunton Ranch/Borderline/Old Mill Trails (SEE MAP LINK BELOW), for a total distance of 7.8 miles, moderate difficulty, elevation gain 1,220 ft. Unique features: historic buildings, wildlife, wildflower viewing, and best of all, incredible, panoramic 360 degree views from the Staunton Rocks overlook! We'll take a break at the overlook for a snack, water, and photo ops.

*Click on the link below for a Staunton State Park brochure; scroll down for park history, location & a map of the trails we'll hike:

• https://friendsofstauntonstatepark.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Staunton-State-Park-Brochure-2024.pdf
• ***We wait 5 minutes MAXIMUM for hikers who arrive late, out of consideration for those arriving on time. Please allow some extra time to drive to the trailhead.***
  IMPORTANT: Your participation in this event is at your own risk, and you are solely responsible for your personal hiking experience, from start to finish. Please consider your fitness/comfort level & the demands of this hike (length/elevation gain/difficulty) prior to signing up.
• ***PLEASE NOTE: IF YOU DON'T HAVE A COLORADO STATE PARKS PASS, A PARK FEE OF $10 PER VEHICLE IS REQUIRED FOR ENTRY (cash, check, credit card accepted). You can pay at the entrance station just inside the park entrance.
• DIRECTIONS: Staunton State Park: 12102 S Elk Creek Rd, Pine, CO 80470
• From Denver, take US Hwy. 285 south to Shaffer's Crossing, about 6 miles west of Conifer. Turn north on Elk Creek Road and follow the signs 1.5 miles to the park entrance.
• ***IMPORTANT!! ***
• WE'LL MEET AT THE MEADOW LOT, WHICH IS ABOUT 1/4 MILE UP THE HILL FROM THE ENTRANCE STATION AND LOWER LOT. THE LARGE PICNIC SHELTER IS DIRECTLY ACROSS THE ROAD FROM THE MEADOW LOT*** The Staunton Ranch Trail Head, where we'll begin our hike, is adjacent to this parking lot. There are restrooms at this location. Trails are well-marked by signs throughout the park. DOGS ARE ALLOWED AT STAUNTON, AND MUST BE ON LEASH.

LUNCH & LIVE MUSIC (ALWAYS OPTIONAL; ALWAYS FUN!):
After the hike, as we head home, let's enjoy lunch and live music performed by the incredibly talented Josh Blackburn, on the large patio at Brook's Place Tavern in Conifer. The food is delicious, with an extensive menu, along with a variety of drink options, including craft beers.
Check out Josh Blackburn's amazing music via the link below:
https://www.joshblackburn.com/

Brook's Place Tavern info. & location:
https://www.brooksplacetavern.com/