Second perhaps only to Three Sisters, Staunton State Park is my favorite day-ride riding destination within reasonable driving distance from Denver.
There’s lots of climbing, but you’re rewarded with spectacular views and some extended descents that will take your breath away.
Pro tip: Purchasing an annual Colorado State Parks pass doesn’t just make financial sense if you visit these areas more than a couple of times per year–your money also goes toward management costs, resource usage, and helping the agency meet their conservation mission.