Self Guided Elk Hunts In Colorado

By: Chuck Ellisor

Author of The Rocky Mountain Elk Guide

Self guided elk hunts in Colorado are something many hunters I know would really like to experience. I grew up hunting deer in Alabama and dreaming of the day that I could go to the Rocky Mountains and hunt elk.

Many of the hunting magazines I read had articles about guided hunts with outfitters but I could not find information on pulling off a self guided elk hunt.

I was lucky enough to move to Colorado and work with several Elk Hunting Outfitters, but before that, I had planned and went on my own self guided elk hunts. There are so many things to consider and plan, but I will try to get it down to the basics.

When, Where and How are your three basic questions for planning self guided elk hunts in Colorado.

When, has to do with what season you will choose to hunt. Bow season starts in late August and moves into September. Then black powder season starts in late September, followed by three rifle seasons in October. The last rifle season ends around the first week of November. Weather is a major factor because of snow possibilities in the later seasons.

Where, will be your next decision that has to be decided. There are so many great areas to hunt on public lands that it will be hard to choose. Start out by getting a state map showing all of the public lands. This will include National Forests and BLM lands. Then, it will be up to you to contact local sporting goods stores for info and pre-scouting.

How, is the last question you will have to answer. You will need to decide on what type of shelter, food supplies and gear you will need to make your hunt a reality. Self guided elk hunts in Colorado are a great and affordable way to experience the dream hunt of a lifetime.

If you’ll be planning a trip in the future, you might want to check out my guide at  Elk Hunting Guide.  It’s filled with everything you’ll need to know about planning and preparing for an elk hunt in the Rocky Mountains.