Davis Ponds
Type … Hike
Highlights … Views, Lakes
Seasons … All Seasons
Difficulty with Kids … Easy
Trail Details … 2.3 Miles, Loop (AllTrails)
Closest Town … Pine or Conifer
Shade … Some
Parking Situation … Plenty (Staunton State Park entry fee required)
Potty Situation … Flush Toilets at Park Visitor Center
As a newer Colorado state park, Staunton often gets overlooked in favor of some of the more well-known parks in the area - this is a major plus though if you’re looking for a low-key weekend adventure.
My husband is not a hiker but he will hike if there is fishing involved which is why we were thrilled when we heard about the Davis Ponds hike. It’s an easy mile or so hike to the ponds that are stocked May-September with trout. I don’t know if the fish are extra-dumb or what :) but expect to catch a bunch of small fish if you hike in with a spinner rod and some worms. It’s an absolute blast and the hike to get there will get some energy out for the day!
This trail is also doable in the winter if your family has the right footwear - we hike in to icefish here as this is an awesome spot to do so!
TRAIL TIPS
Grab a map! At the trailhead, there are paper maps that are “interactive” and have nature facts attached to numbers you find along the trail. This is a great way to keep littles engaged on the way to the ponds.
Nature Center. In the main parking lot for Davis Ponds, there is a visitor/nature center that is great to cruise through with your littles before or after your hike.
Buggy maybe! It can be a little buggy near the water, so pack bug spray.
Fishing licenses. All kids 16 and under won’t need fishing licenses to fish here but you will need a Colorado fishing license as an adult.
Snaps from the trail
Following the interactive trail map
My lil guy on the day he caught his first fish
Great spot for ice fishing too!
Kids crampons are sooooo helpful
