Davis Ponds, Staunton State Park, Boulder - Denver - Golden - Fort Collins - Lyons, Colorado
Davis Ponds - 2.25 miles
Staunton State Park
| Round-Trip Length: | 2.25 miles |
| Start-End Elevation: | 8,310' - 8,211' |
| Elevation Change: | 99' elevation loss (+108' total roundtrip elevation gain) |
| Skill Level: | Easy |
| Dogs Allowed: | Yes |
| Bikes Allowed: | No |
| Horses Allowed: | No |
| Related Trails: |
Davis Ponds - 2.25 Miles Round-Trip
The Davis Ponds Loop is an easy, hiker-only trail ideal for families, runners and winter recreation. This pair of manmade ponds is stocked with cutthroat and rainbow trout, and 2016 fishing reports show anglers having success with fish in the 12 - 14" range.
The trail begins at the Ranch Hand Picnic Area with views of Staunton’s towering granite cliffs to the north. Follow signs at the first intersection (.05 miles) for Davis Ponds over a small wooden bridge into an open grassy area.
The Davis Ponds Trail runs level past the Chase Meadows Trail split and opens to mountain views (.46 miles : 8,312’). Follow signs (right) at an unmarked path and drop between the Davis Ponds (1.3 miles : 8,211’).
The Davis Ponds Trail continues along the east bank of the upper pond before turning back to the trailhead (2.25 miles).
Interactive GPS Topo Map
Key GPS Coordinates - DATUM WGS84
- N39 30 00 W105 22 44 — Ranch Hand Picnic Area and Trailhead
Worth Noting
- The ponds have a developed picnic area and nearby restrooms.
- The Ranch Hand Group Picnic Area is available for rent. Call 303.816.0912 for details.
Camping and Backpacking Information
- There is no backcountry camping at Staunton State Park.
Fishing Information
- Fishing is permitted at the Davis Ponds with a valid Colorado fishing license. The ponds are stocked with cutthroat and rainbow trout.
Rules and Regulations
- There's a $7 entrance fee to Staunton State Park. Colorado State Parks passes are accepted.
- Park Hours: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Dogs are permitted at Staunton State Park, but must be on a six-foot leash.
- Rock climbing is allowed. Climb without bolting or fixed protection only. Seasonal raptor closures are clearly posted and strictly enforced.
- Mountain biking is allowed on multi-use trails.
Directions to Trailhead
Staunton State Park is located 40 miles SW of downtown Denver in Pine, CO. The park is approximately 6 miles west of Conifer on the north side of US Highway 285.
From the junction of US 285 and C470 near Denver, travel 18.4 miles on 285 South towards Fairplay. Turn right (north) on Elk Creek Road. Travel on Elk Creek Road for 1.2 miles, then turn right into the park. The Ranch Hand picnic shelter and trailhead is .5 miles from this entrance.
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