SW Colorado Wilderness Drop Camp Elk Hunt

ABOUT OUTFITTER:
This HFA Endorsed Outfitter provides remote high-country hunts in Colorado for Elk, Mule Deer, Black Bear, Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, and Moose. They specialize in Archery, Muzzleloader, and Rifle hunting. Operating in the San Juan National Forest and Weminuche Wilderness, they offer top-quality guides, equipment, livestock, and accommodations. Their goal is to deliver the best hunting experience Colorado has to offer. Whether you're seeking a thrilling hunt, a fishing trip, or a summer horseback adventure, they ensure a memorable and successful outing in the wilderness. Experience the beauty of Colorado’s backcountry with expert guidance and unmatched service.

HUNT DETAILS:
These drop camps take place in Colorado’s San Juan National Forest, within Game Management Units 74, 75, and 751. Covering one of the state's largest and most diverse permit areas, the outfitter maintains numerous reserved camp locations, typically 4-10 miles from the trailhead by horseback. Elevations range from 8,500 to 12,500 feet, offering varied terrain from lower ponderosa pine and scrub oak country to high-altitude sub-alpine meadows. Hunting locations shift based on the season, allowing camps to follow game migration patterns. Most areas are accessed by horseback, with hunting conducted on foot. Being in good physical condition will enhance your experience and increase success. Designed for hunters who prefer a DIY experience or a more budget-friendly alternative to guided hunts, drop camps provide a remote wilderness adventure. You'll be packed in on horseback, dropped off at your designated camp, and a packer will return to transport any harvested game. Groups have exclusive use of their camp, as the outfitter does not mix parties. You are responsible for your own food, cooking, and game care, including skinning, quartering, and packing meat and horns to the nearest accessible trail. Hunting is done directly from camp for elk, deer, and black bear. This is an eight-day experience, including two travel days and six full hunting days. A strict 225-pound weight limit applies to all horseback hunts.

ACCOMMODATIONS:
Each camp features canvas wall tents equipped with wood stoves, cots, tables, chairs, and all essential cooking equipment. Camps include floored tents, a latrine setup, a heat source, a cooking stove, pots, pans, utensils, plates, cups, bowls, lanterns, a water filter or purification tablets, an ax, a saw, and a shovel.

To ensure a comfortable and successful trip, it is essential to be in good physical condition and bring the necessary gear. A quality sleeping bag is a must, along with food and cooking essentials such as cooking oil, condiments, and spices. Dishwashing supplies, paper towels, and toilet paper should also be packed for convenience. Small green propane bottles are required for cooking, and personal hunting gear is necessary for a successful hunt. Additionally, bringing proper game care supplies will help with processing and preserving your harvest in the field. Being well-prepared will enhance both your comfort and overall experience.

LICENSE INFORMATION:
Colorado elk tags for the 2nd and 3rd rifle seasons are available over the counter, while tags for archery, muzzleloader, 1st, and 4th rifle seasons must be obtained through the draw. Typically, 0-2 preference points are required to secure a tag in these areas. The Colorado draw deadline is usually in early April. For guidance on applying for preference points or entering the draw, hunters can reach out to the Huntin' Fool License Application team for assistance.