Day Hike ~ Staunton State Park (SAT 21 FEB) [INTERMEDIATE-FIT]
Details
Join us on a hike in Staunton State Park!
Mason Creek, Bear Paw, Old Mill and Staunton Ranch Trail Loop
This loop is visually stunning because it transitions from lush, creek-side aspen groves and deep evergreen forests into high-altitude ridges with sweeping 360-degree views.
The major highlights include the Bear Paw overlooks (Catamount, Pikes Peak, and Eagle Cliffs) for panoramic mountain vistas, and the historic 1930s sawmill ruins that offer a unique glimpse into Colorado's homesteading past.
✅ MEET AND GREET: 9.45 AM
✅START HIKING: 10.00 AM (our hikes start on time)
FITNESS (intermediate-fit) You should be in good shape and comfortable hiking steep sections. The first half of this hike is all uphill.
From Denver
Take US Highway 285 south to Shaffers Crossing, about six miles west of Conifer. Turn north on Elk Creek Road and follow the signs 1.5 miles to the park entrance.
TRAIL: Mason Creek Trailhead | Meadow (Lower) Parking Lot
- Length: 8 miles round trip
- Elevation gain: 1,400 feet
- Route type: Loop
- Time: 4 hours - 4.5 hours
✅Traction devices are required for all winter hikes. Even without recent snow, many trails have a section that's always in shadow and iced over.
CARPOOLING: (none)
Use the comments section below to coordinate carpooling with hikers near you.
NOTEABLES:
- Hikes may be changed or canceled due to weather, snowpack, smoke, avalanche danger and low RSVPS.
- Dogs: Allowed on leash.
- A Colorado state park pass is required (https://cpw.state.co.us/parks-passes)
DISCLAIMER:
Organizers are not responsible for your safety, are not experts, and should not be relied on for specific advice. Organizers do not provide medical or emergency care. Be aware of the risks, and be prepared to navigate and complete the hike independently, including hiking out alone if needed.
GUESTS: Want to bring a friend? We'd love to have them join! Just ask them to sign up for It's Colorado Beautiful and agree to the Terms of Understanding before the hike, as guests aren’t permitted on this adventure.
RSVP CODE: Change your mind? Update your RSVP (including waitlist) at least 12 hours before the event. If you miss two events without notice, you'll need to wait 90 days before rejoining the group.
BE PREPARED:
- If you arrive at the trailhead unprepared (wrong equipment, not in good shape for the trail), you'll be asked to join us on a future hike.
- Advice: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/day-hiking-checklist.html
- Ask questions in advance.
EXPERIENCE
- beginner: established trails, few steep sections, 3-5 miles
- intermediate: usually on established trails, some steep sections, 5-10 miles
- advanced: often off trail, many steep sections, 10+ miles
FITNESS LEVEL
- average: you are a casual hiker, you probably don't work out
- fit: you are an avid hiker, you stay in good shape
- athletic: you want to feel the burn, you can run up the mountain