Sunrise Pond is a small scenic pond nestled within Mueller State Park in Teller County, sitting at approximately 9,600 feet of elevation on the western slope of Pikes Peak near the town of Divide, Colorado. The pond serves as a peaceful waypoint along the park's extensive trail network, accessible via well-marked hiking routes that wind through dense pine and aspen forests with views of Raspberry Mountain and the surrounding Rockies. Visitors frequently describe Mueller State Park as one of the most pristine and well-maintained state parks in Colorado, and Sunrise Pond reflects that standard with its serene setting and minimal crowds.
Hiking is the primary activity at and around Sunrise Pond. Mueller State Park offers over 40 miles of signed trails spanning beginner to expert difficulty levels, with the Elk Meadow Trail being one of the most popular routes featuring steep twists, autumn aspen color, and panoramic mountain views. Several trails route past ponds within the park, making Sunrise Pond a natural destination or rest stop during longer outings. The terrain varies from dense forest sections to open prairie with mountain panoramas, and hikers regularly log three to ten miles on a single visit. Trail conditions change dramatically with seasons, and snow-covered paths in winter may require traction devices like microspikes. No dogs are permitted on any trails within the park, a policy that protects the resident wildlife.
Wildlife viewing around Sunrise Pond and throughout Mueller State Park is exceptional. Visitors report sightings of elk herds, mule deer, foxes, coyotes, wild turkeys, bald eagles, Canada jays, grouse, chipmunks, and ground squirrels. The Elk Meadow Trail offers dedicated wildlife corridors, and early morning or sunset hikes produce the best viewing opportunities. The park hosts guided wildlife hikes, including a popular sunset elk viewing program.
Camping at Mueller State Park provides easy access to Sunrise Pond and the surrounding trails. The campground offers over 100 sites including pull-through RV spots with 30-amp electric hookups, tent sites with flat gravel pads and fire pits, and walk-in backcountry sites equipped with bear boxes and wheelbarrows for gear transport. Coin-operated showers cost between one and two dollars for four to seven minutes of hot water and require quarters. Additional facilities include a dish-washing sink, laundry room, dump station, and potable water fill stations. Firewood is sold at the visitor center until 4 PM. Campsites book out months in advance during summer, so reservations six months ahead are recommended for weekend stays.
The Mueller State Park visitor center near the main entrance houses educational displays about local wildlife and park history, and staff provide trail recommendations for first-time visitors. A playground for children sits adjacent to the center, and an outdoor amphitheater faces the mountains for ranger-led programs. Entry costs ten dollars per vehicle as a daily pass, payable at the self-serve station with cash or at the visitor center. EV chargers are available in the parking lot. The high elevation brings intense sun during the day and cold nights even in summer, with fierce wind a frequent factor. Cell service is available throughout much of the park. Nearby attractions include Cripple Creek, Woodland Park, and Eleven Mile Reservoir, making Mueller State Park and Sunrise Pond an ideal base camp for exploring the Pikes Peak region.