Quick Tips
- Check with the Army for rules about transporting firearms
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 170"+ |
| Elk | N/A | 280"+ |
| Antelope | 65"-75" | 75"+ |
On The Ground
This unit is traditionally known for having trophy-size mule deer. However, deer numbers have been drastically reduced in an experiment to control chronic wasting disease. The U.S. Army controls access to parts of this unit.
Army officials no longer consider this a trophy mule deer area, emphasizing that managers have allowed an overharvest as researchers study several ways to control chronic wasting disease.
Terrain
The unit has flat plains crossed by arroyos that drain into the Purgatoire River by many deep canyons. A number of steep plateaus and rugged ridges complete the landscape.
Roughly 368 square miles
99.8% public land
Elevations from 4,429-5,742 feet
Vegetation
Shortgrass prairie consisting of buffalo and blue grama grasses, areas of pinyon/juniper, sagebrush, yucca, bitterbrush, Russian thistle and cottonwoods.
Access
To hunt on Fort Carson or Pinon Canyon you need to comply with four requirements: buy a recreational permit, attend a safety briefing, register firearms and get a downrange pass. ATVs are not allowed.
Firing ranges and some other areas are closed to hunting
Youth hunters must have an adult mentor
Scouting is permitted, but hunters must comply with access requirements
The Army rarely restricts weapons to bows and arrows, muzzleloaders or shotguns
Off-road driving is permitted only to retrieve game
Camping and Lodging
A primitive campground is half a mile north of the main entry gate along US Highway 350. Potable water and porta-potties are available. Trinidad, some 30 miles southwest and La Junta, about 40 miles northeast provide a wide variety of motels and restaurants, gas, diesel and medical facilities.
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