Denver: Llama Lunch in the Rocky Mountains

A unique way to explore Colorado’s stunning Rocky Mountains is through the Llama Lunch tour at Staunton State Park. Priced at an all-inclusive rate, this 3-hour experience combines a gentle hiking adventure, llama interactions, and a gourmet picnic lunch overlooking picturesque mountains and ponds. With a perfect provider rating of 5, the tour is ideal for families, friends, and anyone eager to enjoy nature with an adorable wooly companion. The tour starts at 9:30 AM, covers about 3 miles, and requires participants to be at least 7 years old. The group size is private, with a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 4 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

While the physical requirements involve walking on lightly rugged terrain at 8,500 feet elevation, the route is designed to be accessible for those with moderate mobility. The tour offers a combination of nature, history, and wildlife, making it a well-rounded adventure for spring and summer days. The food served during the picnic is fresh and appealing, including wraps, trail snacks, and drinks, with options like Caesar grilled chicken wraps and Caprese sandwiches. This tour’s charm lies in its combination of scenic vistas and llama companionship, making it a memorable outing in the Colorado wilderness.

Key Points

• Short but scenic: A 3-hour guided llama hike through Staunton State Park.
• Beautiful views: Overlooks mountains, ponds, and wildflower meadows.
• Educational experience: Guides share llama facts and local wildlife knowledge.
• Historical stops: Traverse early 1900s homestead cabins and land once inhabited by Ute and Cheyenne tribes.
• Includes picnic lunch: Tasty wraps, trail snacks, refreshing drinks, and kettle corn.
• Private group experience: Small, intimate tours with personalized attention.

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Meeting Point and Logistics at Staunton State Park

This tour departs from the US 285 & Mountain View Park & Ride Parking Lot, marked by a red-and-white sign and the Wonder Meadow Farm trailer. It’s about a 10-minute drive from the parking lot to the park’s entrance. The starting time is 9:30 AM, with the tour lasting approximately 3 hours. Travelers should bring hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, rain gear, and weather-appropriate clothing for comfort and safety. No pets or alcohol are allowed, and participants must sign a waiver before starting.

The group size is limited to 4 people, making it a personalized experience. The tour is suitable only for those aged 7 and up who can walk 3 miles on lightly rugged terrain. It’s best suited for spring and summer days when the weather is mild and the wildflowers are in bloom.

Exploring Staunton State Park’s Natural Beauty

The scenic drive from the visitor center takes about 10 minutes to reach the trailhead, where the guided tour begins. The park is located at 12102 S. Elk Creek Road in Pine, CO, roughly an hour from Denver. The trail leads through pine forests, meadows, and past historic cabins, offering a glimpse into early Colorado homesteading life.

Along the way, guides point out local wildlife and geological features, enriching the experience. As the trail meanders through wildflower-filled meadows, visitors absorb the tranquility of the landscape and enjoy sweeping mountain vistas. The route is designed to be accessible yet engaging, with minimal elevation gain, making it manageable for most participants.

Meeting the Llamas and Learning From the Guides

One of the most charming parts of this tour is the opportunity to share the trail with gentle llamas. These wooly animals are calm and approachable, and their guides are well-versed in llama care and behavior. Visitors learn interesting facts about llamas, including how they carry gear and their role in mountain life.

Throughout the walk, guides also share local wildlife facts, helping participants appreciate the biodiversity of the Rockies. The guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor contribute to a relaxed, informative atmosphere, making the experience both fun and educational.

Scenic Picnic Lunch Overlooking Davis Ponds

The tour pauses at the Davis Ponds, a scenic spot with views of mountains and water. Here, the gourmet picnic is laid out on blankets or tables, featuring fresh wraps like Caesar grilled chicken or Caprese sandwiches, trail snacks, and kettle corn. Refreshing vanilla bean lemonade and water are included, offering a satisfying break in the wilderness.

The lunch setting provides a peaceful moment to enjoy the surroundings, with mountains and ponds serving as a stunning backdrop. The food options are simple yet flavorful, with special considerations for dietary restrictions possibly accommodated upon request. The combination of good food and spectacular scenery makes this picnic a highlight of the tour.

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The Historical and Cultural Significance of the Land

During the trek, guides highlight the homesteading history of the area, including the early 1900s cabins at Staunton Ranch. Visitors learn about the Ute and Cheyenne tribes who inhabited these lands for thousands of years. The heritage elements add depth to the experience, connecting natural beauty with cultural history.

Walking through the meadow and near the cabins offers a sense of stepping back in time, creating a richer appreciation for Colorado’s historic landscape. The stories shared by guides foster an understanding of the human history intertwined with the natural environment.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

Participants should arrive punctually at the meeting point and wear closed-toe shoes suitable for hiking. Bringing sunscreen, reusable water bottles, and weather-appropriate clothing ensures comfort. The lightly rugged terrain requires moderate mobility, so those with mobility impairments may find the terrain challenging.

Since the tour operates in spring and summer, checking the weather forecast is advisable, and rain gear should be packed. As no pets or alcohol are permitted, plan accordingly. The tour is fully refundable if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, with options to reschedule in case of injury or severe weather.

Distinctive Features Compared to Other Colorado Tours

What sets this Llama Lunch experience apart from other outdoor activities in Colorado is the personalized interaction with llamas, the combination of hiking and cultural education, and the delicious picnic lunch overlooking pristine landscapes. Unlike larger, more generic tours, this experience offers a small group setting with knowledgeable guides who share local stories and wildlife insights.

The location at Staunton State Park provides a less crowded, more intimate setting compared to busier parks like Rocky Mountain National Park. The short duration makes it accessible for those with limited time but seeking a meaningful outdoor experience. Plus, the family-friendly nature makes it suitable for children 7 and older.

Denver to Staunton State Park: Easy Access and Planning

Starting from the parking lot on Old US Hwy 285, the tour includes a brief scenic drive into Staunton State Park. The park’s address, 12102 S. Elk Creek Road in Pine, is about an hour from Denver, making it a convenient escape from city life. The meeting point is easy to find, marked by a white truck and trailer with Wonder Meadow Farm branding, ensuring hassle-free check-in.

Booking in advance is recommended, and the reserve and pay later option adds flexibility to planning. With full refunds available up to 24 hours before the tour, travelers can confidently secure their spot for this unique Colorado outdoor experience.

Final Thoughts on the Llama Lunch Adventure

This 3-hour guided hike offers a blend of nature, wildlife, and history, wrapped in the charming presence of gentle llamas. The scenery is striking, with mountains, wildflowers, and historic cabins creating a picturesque backdrop for this outing. The picnic lunch adds a satisfying touch, making the experience both relaxing and engaging.

Ideal for families, friends, and keen photographers, this tour delivers a personalized, memorable way to enjoy the Colorado outdoors. While it requires moderate walking and is best suited for those 7 and older, the small group size ensures a comfortable and intimate experience. The Llama Lunch in the Rocky Mountains combines adventure, education, and fun in one delightful package.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age limit for this tour?
Children must be at least 7 years old to participate.

How long is the hike?
The guided trek covers approximately 3 miles and lasts about 3 hours.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, rain gear, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Can I bring pets?
No, pets are not allowed on this tour.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking on lightly rugged terrain and may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments.

How do I find the meeting point?
The meeting point is at the US 285 & Mountain View Park & Ride Parking Lot, marked by a white truck and trailer from Wonder Meadow Farm.

Is this tour refundable?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What is included in the lunch?
The picnic features fresh wraps, trail snacks, kettle corn, and refreshing drinks like vanilla bean lemonade and water.

When is the best time of year to do this tour?
The tour operates in spring and summer, when wildflowers bloom and weather is favorable.

How accessible is the tour?
It is best suited for those who can walk 3 miles on lightly rugged terrain, with minimal elevation gain.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby