Elk Falls Pond Hike

The Elk Falls Pond Hike is a stunning day hike through Staunton State Park that the whole family will enjoy. Travel through vast meadows, along rocky ridges, and under the coverage of a mixed pine and aspen forest. Though this trek offers outdoor activities for every season, we would recommend completing this trail in the autumn. The autumn offers a picturesque adventure through vibrant yellow and orange aspen groves. The Elk Falls Pond is sure to impress its adventurers, just note it is a popular outdoor excursion. If you hope you avoid the crowds, consider a weekday adventure to the Elk Falls Pond. Note that visitors are required to pay a $10USD pass to access the park.

Embark on your expedition to Elk Falls Pond from the Staunton Ranch Trailhead. From the trailhead, track northwest along the Staunton Ranch Trail. This path will guide you through meadowlands and along the base of the craggy cliffs often dotted with intrepid climbers. Continue along the Staunton Ranch Trail until it merges onto a service road. Track the service road through the aspen groves until it merges onto the Bugling Elk Trail. The Bugling Elk Trail will curve you south along granite outcroppings to the Elk Falls Pond. Enjoy the shimmering waters from the pond and take a break along the shore’s edge.

Rest and refuel, and when you are ready, retrace your steps along the routes back to the trailhead. If you want a change of scenery, loop back along the Marmot Passage and Scout Line Trails to get back to the trailhead.