Staunton State Park: Cycling Amidst Altitudes and Ambitions

Nestled in Pine, Colorado, Staunton State Park offers a diverse tapestry of biking experiences. Covering an expansive 15 miles, this loop-route park is a medley of steep climbs, rapid descents, and scenic landscapes, designed to challenge every cyclist's stamina and skills.

Trail Specifications

• Distance: 15 mi
• Level: Intermediate
• Route type: Loop
• City: Pine
• State: Colorado

Terrain and Experience: From Climbs to Descents

Upon entering the park, one can instantly notice its wide, super-groomed trails, complimented by stretches of service road. Overall, the park lays out 17 miles of trail that are open to mountain bikes. Engage in the full trail, and prepare to conquer about 3K vertical feet at significant altitudes. Such elevations are not just for casual cycling; they demand exertion, making Staunton a favorite for exercise and training enthusiasts.However, the grandeur of the park does come with its trade-offs. For those who frequent nearby Buffalo Creek, Staunton may feel like the familiar sibling — filled with climbs, albeit missing some of the fun.

Recommended Routes:

• Marmot Passage Trail: To ease the climb, take this trail clockwise. This not only ensures a more manageable ascent but also promises some of the best technical spots during the descent.
• Borderline/Mason Creek Trail: Opt for a clockwise route here too. The uphill on the Borderline can be rather intense, but this route rewards cyclists with the longest and most flowing downhill experience in the park.

Feedback from Fellow Cyclists

Staunton State Park evokes a spectrum of opinions:

• Praised for its impeccable conditions, good signage, and maintenance.
• The Chimney Rock addition elevates the park's challenge and aesthetic appeal.
• Marmot Passage stands out as an exception, offering a satisfactory ride even for advanced riders.
• Yet, some find the trails lacking in technical challenges.
• Lion’s Back ascent, however, is recommended for its breathtaking views.
• A few critiques touch on the park's crowd, especially during weekends, and the few technical spots available.

Navigating to Staunton State Park

Starting from Denver, head south on 285 until reaching Shaffers Crossing, located roughly 6 miles west of Conifer. Make a northern turn onto Elk Creek Road and then follow the guiding signs for about 1.5 miles to find the park entrance.

Parting Words

While Staunton State Park may not be every cyclist’s dream trail, it undeniably offers unique experiences. Whether it's the challenging climbs or the picturesque landscapes, Staunton beckons those who seek both exertion and visual delight. However, for a thrilling and technical ride, some might find neighboring trails like Buffalo Creek more enticing.