Denver: Llama Lunch in the Rocky Mountains

If you’re craving a unique way to experience Colorado’s stunning scenery, the Llama Lunch in the Rocky Mountains offers just that. Based in Staunton State Park, just about an hour from Denver, this 3-hour tour combines gentle hiking, adorable llama companionship, and a tasty picnic amid spectacular mountain views. The experience is tailored for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a laid-back but memorable outdoor outing.

We found two aspects particularly appealing. First, the opportunity to walk alongside a friendly llama that carries your gear and adds a touch of charm to your trek. It’s a delightful way to connect with the landscape without strenuous effort. Second, the scenic stop at Davis Ponds for lunch offers sweeping vistas of mountains and ponds that make for fantastic photo opportunities.

One thing to consider is that the tour involves walking approximately 3 miles at an elevation of 8,500 feet, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a lightly rugged terrain. If you have mobility issues or young children under 7, this might not be the right fit. It’s also a guided, private experience, which means more personalized attention but fewer spots available, so booking early is wise.

This tour is ideal for families with children aged 7 and above, couples, or groups of friends who enjoy scenic walks and animals. It’s perfect if you want a taste of Colorado’s wild beauty with a friendly, personal touch.

Key Points

• Unique outdoor experience with llamas in the Rockies, combining hiking and animal interaction.
• Scenic picnic lunch overlooking mountains and ponds—the perfect reward for a light hike.
• Educational guides share fascinating facts about llamas, early Colorado homesteading, and local wildlife.
• Family-friendly for children over 7, requiring a moderate level of mobility and fitness.
• Convenient location close to Denver, with a scenic 10-minute drive into Staunton State Park.
• Flexible booking options with full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Rocky Mountain Llama Lunch Experience

The Starting Point and Access

Your adventure begins at the US 285 & Mountain View Park & Ride Parking Lot in Pine, Colorado. This spot is easy to find thanks to the clear signage and the identifiable Wonder Meadow Farm trailer. From here, a short 10-minute scenic drive whisks you into the heart of Staunton State Park, a lesser-known gem with fewer crowds but just as much natural beauty as more famous parks.

The logistics are straightforward. Arriving promptly at the designated time, usually 9:30 AM, ensures you don’t miss out on the intimate experience. The tour is limited to private groups with 2 to 4 participants, making it a personalized outing. The cost covers everything from the llama hike to the picnic lunch, providing good value for a half-day adventure.

The Trail and Scenic Highlights

Once in Staunton State Park, the guided tour kicks off with a short drive to the trailhead along Elk Creek Road. The trek lasts about 3 miles—a manageable distance for most active individuals. The trail weaves through pine forests, open meadows, and past historic cabins belonging to early 1900s homesteaders, which the guide will explain along the way.

What makes this walk special is not just the terrain but the companionship of the llamas. These gentle animals carry all your gear—no need to worry about heavy backpacks—and walk beside you, their woolly presence adding a layer of delight to the scenery. We loved the way the guides shared fascinating llama facts and local wildlife info throughout the trip, enriching the experience beyond just the visual.

The Llama Experience

For animal lovers, sharing the trail with a llama is a highlight. The llamas are calm, friendly, and surprisingly adorable, with one guide noting, “These animals are gentle and make you smile.” Their curious faces and woolly coats stand in contrast to the rugged mountain environment, providing a fun and interactive element.

Plus, the guides are well-versed in llama care and Colorado history, making the experience informative as well as entertaining. You might find yourself learning that llamas are excellent pack animals, originally from South America, now charming visitors in Colorado.

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The Picnic at Davis Ponds

After about an hour of hiking, the group arrives at Davis Ponds—an idyllic spot with calm waters, mountains reflecting in the surface, and a peaceful ambiance. Here, your guides lay out a gourmet picnic lunch that includes wraps, chips, trail snacks, and refreshing drinks like vanilla bean lemonade and water.

The lunch is a highlight: fresh, flavorful, and served with a view that makes every bite taste better. The picnic is compact but satisfying—enough to fuel your walk back. And the scenery is stunning; you’ll want to keep your camera handy for shots of mountains, wildflowers, and sparkling water.

The Return and Reflection

After enjoying your meal, the group heads back along the trail, retracing the scenic route with plenty of opportunities to stop for photos or simply soak in the landscape. The total tour lasts about 3 hours, which feels just right—enough time to enjoy the sights and animals without feeling rushed.

Practical Details and Tips for Your Visit

What to bring is straightforward: hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, rain gear if needed, weather-appropriate clothing, and a reusable water bottle. Since the tour ascends to 8,500 feet, be prepared for the altitude—hydratation is key, and if you’re sensitive to elevation changes, take it slow.

Group size is small, with a minimum of 2 and maximum of 4, so you’ll get plenty of personal attention. The tour is offered on select days, and it’s best to book early—these sessions fill up fast, especially during peak spring and summer months.

Age restrictions are in place: children must be at least 7 years old to participate, and those with mobility issues might find the lightly rugged terrain challenging. No pets or alcohol are permitted.

Price and Value

The price covers the guided hike, llama companionship, and lunch, which many find reasonable given the personalized service and stunning scenery. Travelers appreciated the high-quality picnic and the informative guides, making it more than just a walk in the woods.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

Weather can influence the tour; in cases of severe weather or injury, the company offers full refunds or the option to reschedule. Cancellations at least 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning.

The Sum Up

This experience offers a wonderful blend of outdoor adventure, animal companionship, and scenic beauty. It’s especially suited for families with children over 7, couples, or small groups who want a relaxed, authentic Colorado outing without strenuous activity. The stunning vistas at Davis Ponds and the gentle nature of the llamas make this stand out, creating lasting memories for those who enjoy scenic walks and wildlife.

While it’s not a strenuous trek, it does require a basic level of mobility and comfort at altitude. If that sounds like you, this tour provides a charming, well-organized way to enjoy Colorado’s mountain landscape away from the crowds.

In short, if you’re after a personalized, family-friendly adventure combining nature, animals, and good food, this is a delightful choice that balances fun and learning in an unforgettable setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 7 and above can participate. They must be accompanied by a paying adult. It’s a family-friendly outing that combines outdoor activity with animal interaction.

What should I wear?
Hiking shoes are recommended, along with weather-appropriate clothing. Sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle are also advisable.

How strenuous is the hike?
The trail covers about 3 miles at an elevation of 8,500 feet, with minimal elevation change. It’s manageable for most active individuals but may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
The picnic lunch includes options like wraps and snacks, but some dietary restrictions may not be possible to accommodate. It’s best to inquire beforehand if you have specific needs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, but severe weather or injury will warrant a full refund or rescheduling.

Where does the tour start?
You meet at the US 285 & Mountain View Park & Ride Parking Lot in Pine, Colorado. From there, a short drive takes you into the park.

To sum it up, this llama lunch tour in Colorado’s Staunton State Park delivers a relaxed, scenic, and animal-friendly outing—ideal for those seeking a genuine taste of the Rockies without strenuous effort. It’s a chance to enjoy stunning views, learn about local history, and share the trail with a woolly friend, making it a memorable addition to your Colorado adventure.

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