Staunton Ranch and Bugling Elk Hike

This adventure through Staunton State Park will get your heart rate up. An ideal day hike, the Staunton Ranch and Bugling Elk Trail will exhibit the diversity of the Colorado wilderness. Trek along meadow-laden paths, through aspen groves, past waterfalls, through sagebrush and past ponds. This trail truly packs a punch, I mean what more could you ask for? Mountain view? Well, the Staunton Ranch and Bugling Elk Trail have those too. On your next trip to Denver make sure to make a point of visiting the Staunton State Park. Note visitors are required to purchase a day pass. These passes typically cost $10USD.

Embark on your adventure around the Staunton Ranch and Bugling Elk Hike from the Staunton Ranch Trailhead. Note you can complete this loop trail from either direction, but we prefer to trek clockwise on this adventure. Take the Staunton Ranch Trail on the left and walk through the meadowlands. You will reconnect with the other branch of the Staunton Ranch Trail before meeting a junction. Here, veer left and you will be diverted onto the Scout Line Trail. Ascend a small ridge before the trail plateaus. At the next intersection, take the Marmot Passage Trail left. Follow this path to the Elk Falls Pond. Enjoy the scenery before continuing your voyage.

At this point, you will be guided onto the Bugling Elk Trail. Hike along this route as it curves you east through the aspen groves. Enjoy the vistas of the encompassing mountainous landscape from the exposed sections of the path. Eventually the Bugling Elk Trail will merge onto a service road. Follow the service road southeast until you meet a junction with the Staunton Ranch Trail. Take the Staunton Ranch Trail back to the trailhead.