Two hours in Staunton Park

It was Saturday again, and it was hard to stay home. But I didn't want to drive for hours. Staunton Park came to mind as a nice place to hike and not too far from Denver. Less than an hour later, I parked the car and started walking along the trail. We'd been to Staunton Park a few times before, but always took the easier Davis Ponds trail (Short hike in Staunton Park... Fall colors!). This time I drove to the Lazy V Trailhead parking lot and chose the Old Mill trail to start.

 

At the beginning the trail is well maintained, wide and comfortable for walking. A bit steep, but still easy for hiking. As I walked I admired the granite surrounding the trail. Tough and covered with lichens...

The trail follows the creek and cool clear water running down, making cascades. Such a nice trail for hiking ;)

After half a mile the trail became a bit rougher, but still easy. And after a few more minutes I was walking around old mine ruins. There wasn't much of interest there, an old bank house, ruins of an engine room and some old machinery, so I didn't stop there for long.

I turned left and continued on the trail that led through the trees. Much narrower and even rougher, the trail was still not too steep and no trouble to keep on. The trees walled the trail, and I could only see some buttes when there were rare gaps in trees.

The sky was stunning with light clouds and the sun rays shining through...

A few more twists and I found myself on top of the granite rock with a stunning view of distant mountain ranges...

And the view at the valley below was worth the hike. So I sat down on the rocks and ate my breakfast burrito while admiring this amazing landscape.

Then I headed back and was pleased when the trail wound through an aspen grove...

At this point I decided on taking a shortcut, so I left the beaten path and walked through the woods. The hillsides there were not steep, and the forest looked different than from the trail. I guess that was my reward for trying to find something new and outside the ordinary path.

But soon I joined the same trail I started with. The only difference was the direction of walking. And again I stopped again by the creek to look at the running water.

Staunton Park is an amazing place to hike. I guess fall is the best time to enjoy Colorado colors,  summer is the best time for a longer hike like I had this Saturday. But... probably spring is the best. And if you are lucky, you can see the awakening nature, birds and animals here and there - Staunton Park or Lazy Chipmunk Saga ;)

 

4 miles and 2 hours later I was back in my car and drove home. Easy hike and beautiful views. Highly recommend you try it!

Click here to see the trail on Google Maps if you want.

The pictures were taken on July 27, 2024.