Mason Creek Trail to Eagle Cliffs Overlook: Hike Review
Staunton State Park is located in Pine, CO, just west of Conifer, CO. As the newest park in Colorado’s State Park system (the park opened in 2013), Staunton State Park offers spectacular views along the abundant trails within its 3,828 acres. One of our favorite hikes in the park is the Mason Creek Trail to Eagle Cliffs Overlook. At 7.2 miles in length with approximately 1,300ft. in elevation gain, this hike is moderately challenging and well worth the effort. A short scramble to the scenic Eagle Cliffs Overlook treats hikers to a stunning perspective of Lion’s Head and surrounding mountains. Given that Staunton State Park is only about a 45 minute drive from the Denver metro area, the Mason Creek Trail to Eagle Cliffs Overlook is an outstanding day hike option.
Hike Review Series: Mason Creek Trail to Eagle Cliffs Overlook
Trail Guide
Route Information
Route Instructions
Step 14
Bear right back on to the Mason Creek Trail to descend and retrace your original ascent. From here to the parking area is about 3.2 miles downhill. Congratulations on a spectacular hike!
Planning Tips
Regulations
Park Hours: Open year round, 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Day Use
Pets: Dogs are permitted on the trail, but must be on leash.
Camping: There is no backcountry camping along this hike. However, Staunton State Park has 25 walk-in only tent sites, which must be reserved in advance.
Entrance Fees
Daily Vehicle Pass: $10.00 – Purchase day of visit. Cash or credit card payments accepted at the Entrance Station. A self pay credit card kiosk and a cash self pay area (exact change) are also available near the entrance.
Affixed State Park Pass: $80.00 – This pass is good for 12 months of unlimited access to Colorado state parks. The pass is not interchangeable between vehicles.
Hang Tag Park Pass: $120.00 – This pass is good for 12 months of unlimited access to Colorado state parks. The pass is interchangeable between vehicles.
Getting There
Staunton State Park is located in Pine, CO within Park and Jefferson counties, just west of Conifer, CO. The park is less than 40 miles from the Denver metro area.
From US Hwy 285 S, take the exit toward Elk Creek Rd./Shaffers Crossing. Turn right onto S Elk Creek Rd. and in about one mile reach the entrance to Staunton State Park on your right. Pass through the Entrance Station and make the first right toward the Mason Creek Trailhead Parking Area.
Parking
Park at the Mason Creek Trailhead Parking Area. There are about 25 spots at the trailhead, plus oversized parking for horse trailers. These spots fill up extremely quickly. Park staff usually regulates overflow parking along the road leading to the Mason Creek Trailhead Parking Area.
Weather Forecast
Be sure to check the weather forecast before venturing into wilderness in Staunton State Park. The park’s elevation ranges from 8,100ft. to about 10,000ft., so pack for varying temperatures.
Recommended Hiking Apparel and Gear
Ten Essentials
Even on a day hike, you should carry the appropriate type and amount of gear, clothing, food, water, and other essentials. For certain, make sure that your packing list includes the Ten Essentials.
Hiking Shoes
The Vasque Breeze LT hiking shoes are incredibly lightweight, provide excellent traction, and are quite affordable for their versatility. We like the Vasque Breeze LT’s for everyday hiking that includes a bit of scrambling. In addition, with the “Naturetex” construction, you don’t have to worry about damp feet if the weather turns or you have to splash through streams or puddles along the way.
Hiking Pants
We love prAna’s products. They’re well-made and often multi-functional. Indeed, their Zion (for men) and Halle (for women) are great on- and off-trail, especially for travel. Constructed with a durable UPF-50 fabric, a water-repellant finish, and utility pockets, these have become a staple in our wardrobe.
Base Layer Shirt
Patagonia’s lineup of capilene base layer t-shirts are lightweight and moisture wicking. For our hiking t-shirts and base layers, we often turn to Patagonia products for their craftsmanship, durability, and comfort. Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight shirts are versatile and great for hiking and/or trail running.
Hiking Socks
For most of our hiking needs, we like Darn Tough socks over the multitude of options on the market. They last long and have an ironclad guarantee. In addition, Darn Tough has a variety of designs, ankle lengths, and cushioning options to choose from. We like the Hiker quarter length with light cushioning.
Headwear/Face Covering
We often wear a Buff as a neck gaiter to protect from the sun, given its UPF 50 protective construction. Buffs are also a great option to use as a face covering on the trail. In fact, there are 12+ ways of wearing a Buff, so it’s a versatile piece of gear.
Day Pack
We like REI Co-op’s Flash 22L pack for its affordability, lightweight design, and overall versatility. This pack has enough storage for a day hike and side pockets are available to store Nalgene bottles or other equipment. It is also hydration reservoir compatible. We think the 22L version has the perfect capacity, though REI does have an even smaller Flash 18L with a drawcord top.
Sunscreen
Sun Bum is our go-to sunscreen nowadays. We like its non-greasy feel and neutral fragrance. Any quality sunscreen will do, but Sun Bum SPF 30 is our choice for long days in the sun.
Trail Snacks
Bearded Brothers energy bars taste great and are organic and vegan. These are great trail snacks for on-the-go while on a hike. Available in multiple varieties, such as Blueberry Vanilla (our favorite), Coconut Mango, Raspberry Lemon, Vanilla Pecan, Ginger Peach, and Almond Butter Chocolate.
Recommended Books
If you intend to visit more Colorado state parks beyond Staunton State Park, consider picking up “Colorado State Parks: A Complete Recreation Guide.” Though a bit dated, this book does a nice job providing general overviews of the parks. In addition, we recommend picking up a few naturalist guides for general awareness of Colorado and the surrounding area. An easy to use field guide for plants and birds will help identify species and further add to the enjoyment of your outdoors experience.
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