Staunton State Park Wildfire Mitigation Project
Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the Colorado State Forest Service will begin a wildfire mitigation project at Staunton State Park on Sept. 15, 2025. The 73-acre forestry project will include tree thinning and helicopter operations to reduce wildfire risk and improve watershed health. Recreation opportunities on the east side of the park will be heavily impacted Monday through Friday throughout October, with minimal effects expected to wildlife.
Multiple trails, parking lots, campsites, climbing areas and the archery range will be affected from Sept. 15 through Oct. 31, depending on favorable weather. Hand-cutting operations are expected to start in mid-September. Helicopter removal operations will begin Oct. 1, and flying will be during daylight hours on weekdays only. The popular track chair program at Staunton will experience some minor impacts, including noise-related concerns and suspension of track chairs on Mason Creek Trail during October.
Closures and affected areas
- Mason Creek Trail: Closed from the Mason Creek parking lot to Bear Paw trail Sept. 29 – Oct. 31
- Dines Meadow Trail: Closed from the Spruce and Aspen Loop campgrounds to the Mason Creek parking lot Sept. 29 – Oct. 31
- Mason Creek parking lot: Closed Sept. 29 – Oct. 31
- Archery Range: Closed Sept. 29 – Oct. 31
- Raven Wall climbing area: Closed Sept. 10 – Oct. 31
- Dines Wall climbing area: Closed Sept. 29 – Oct. 31
- Reynolds Wall climbing area: Closed Sept. 29 – Oct. 31
- Amphitheater: Closed during weekdays Sept. 15 – Oct. 31
- Ponderosa Loop campsites 1-10, Spruce Loop campsites 11-19, Aspen Loop campsites 20-25: closed Monday – Thursday from Sept. 29 – Oct. 31
Project updates
Dec. 8, 2025 – Staunton helicopter and cut/pile project completed.
Oct. 10, 2025 – Helicopter operations are underway on weekdays, through Oct. 20.
Sept. 10, 2025 – Hand-cutting operations begin
Frequently asked questions
Why is tree removal necessary?
Tree thinning is essential to reduce the risk of severe wildfires, promote a healthier forest ecosystem and enhance safety for visitors and nearby residents. It also supports habitat restoration efforts for wildlife, including deer and elk.
How is the project funded?
Funding for the project comes from multiple sources, including a $1 million contribution from the Healthy Forests and Vibrant Communities program, Congressionally Designated Spending and Denver Water Forest to Faucets, along with additional support from Colorado Parks and Wildlife .
How long will the project take?
The project is expected to be completed in phases over several months. Updates on progress and expected completion dates will be provided regularly through park communications and community meetings.
What areas will be most affected?
The primary focus areas include the eastern boundary of Staunton State Park adjacent to high-risk wildland-urban interface (WUI) zones in the neighboring Conifer Mountain and Kings Valley communities, and areas with dense tree growth near critical infrastructure like cell towers and emergency access roads.
Why will helicopters be used for tree removal?
Helicopter logging is a practice used to remove trees in difficult-to-access areas while minimizing ground disturbance. Residents and visitors may notice helicopter activity, but efforts will be made to minimize disruption. The steep terrain prohibits ground equipment from accessing the site. Instead, helicopters will removal fuel instead of leaving it on site, which can later be used for wood products.
How does this project benefit the local community?
The project will enhance wildfire preparedness, reduce evacuation risks and improve emergency response access. Additionally, thinning and watershed protection efforts will contribute to a healthier and more resilient forest ecosystem.
Will burning piles be part of the project?
Yes, in certain areas, piling and controlled burning will be used as part of the fuel reduction strategy. These activities will be conducted under strict safety regulations and with advance public notification.
How can residents get involved?
Residents are encouraged to undertake wildfire mitigation efforts on their own properties in coordination with the park’s actions. Resources and guidance will be provided through community meetings, NextDoor updates and partnerships with local wildfire mitigation groups.
How is this project helping wildlife?
Thinning efforts will promote healthier forests, improving wildlife corridors and habitat quality. The project also aims to maintain watershed health.
How will this project impact climbing routes?
Some climbing areas may be temporarily affected due to tree removal or safety concerns. CPW is working to minimize impacts and will provide updates on affected areas.