Arguably the best waterfall hike near Denver, the roughly 9-mile hike to Elk Falls is sure to impress! Here is your guide to planning a hike to Elk Falls Staunton State Park – pictures do not do this beautiful hike justice!
FAQs – Elk Falls Staunton State Park
- Where is Elk Falls?
- Elk Falls is located inside Staunton State Park in Pine, Colorado. Staunton State Park is roughly a 45-minute drive from Denver.
- How long of a hike is Elk Falls?
- The hike to Elk Falls is about 9 miles roundtrip.
- Where do I park for the Elk Falls trail?
- Park at the Lazy V trailhead parking lot located inside Staunton State Park.
- Does Staunton State Park have an entrance fee?
- Yes. A Colorado state park pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. If you do not have an annual Colorado state park pass, a day pass is $10 per vehicle. National Park passes are not accepted.
Getting to Staunton State Park
Staunton State Park is located in Pine, Colorado. Take US Highway 285 S past Conifer and exit at Elk Creek Road. Then, follow the signs to Staunton State Park.
Elk Falls trailhead
Once inside Staunton State Park, continue past the park entrance and Visitor Center to the Lazy V trailhead parking lot. The trail starts from the Lazy V trailhead.
The hike to Elk Falls
From the Lazy V trailhead, take the following trails to get to Elk Falls:
- Lazy V parking lot access trail to Scout Line Trail
- Scout Line Trail to Marmot Passage (1.5 miles)
- Marmot Passage to Elk Falls Pond (1.8 miles)
- Elk Falls Pond to Chimney Rock (0.6 miles)
- Chimney Rock to Elk Falls (0.3 miles)
From Elk Falls, either go back the way you came or make it a loop by taking the following trails back to the Lazy V parking lot:
- Elk Falls to Chimney Rock (0.3 miles)
- Chimney Rock to Elk Falls Pond/Bugling Elk Trail (0.6 miles)
- Bugling Elk Trail to Access Road (0.9 miles)
- Access Road to Lazy V parking lot access trail (~3 miles)
Best tips for hiking the Elk Falls trail
- Stop at the viewpoint of Lion’s Head (obvious side trail, but unmarked) on the Marmot Passage Trail
- The best time to view Elk Falls is mid-to-late spring when the falls are running due to snow melt, or in winter when the falls are frozen.
- Pack a lunch (and plenty of water)! This is a long hike, and there are some nice scenic spots for a picnic along the way.
Elk Falls Staunton State Park – best waterfall hike near Denver
In summary, if you are looking for the best waterfall hike near Denver, look no further than the Elk Falls trail in Staunton State Park! This impressive 9-mile hike features a 75-foot waterfall, cool rock formations, and a beautiful Ponderosa pine forest.
