Lots of public land from the Rabbit Ears Mountains south to the Colorado River along with good numbers of deer and elk and some high-quality animals attract hunters to this unit, which is managed to produce mature bucks. Hunters don’t need to draw elk tags for the second and third seasons.

This unit was largely burned during the 2020 East Troublesome Fire. Hunters should be aware that the landscape will be vastly different in areas and animal movements and habits may have changed. Some mature bulls live in this unit, which is a rarity in most other units, and hunters can buy tags over-the-counter for the second and third rifle seasons. Most of the good bucks are killed during the two November seasons, but archery, muzzleloader and first rifle elk seasons are also very good. There is plenty of low elevation ground to hunt in November seasons.

From the steep, rugged, timbered peaks of the Rabbit Ears Mountains on the Continental Divide to the gentle foothills above the Colorado River on the south, this unit is mostly public land, even in the lowlands. From Troublesome Creek on the east to Rocky Mountain National Park on the west, mule deer and elk live here year round. Most of the Never Summer Wilderness is in the northeast corner. Much of the land is moderately steep and can be reached by hunters with four-wheel-drive vehicles.

Lowlands are mostly sagebrush hills with pockets of scrub oak, bitterbrush and serviceberry. From 7,000-9,500 feet conifers and aspens dominate. A lot of pine trees were killed by pine beetles, which has spurred growth of game feed. Timberline is about 11,000 feet above sea level. Most of the mountains between 9,000 and 11,500 feet are rocky with few open bowls.

Good access to National Forest and BLM land with different trailheads leading to remote places for horseback and backpack hunters to get away from crowds. Primitive roads lead to the heads of most drainages into the Colorado River. Private land impedes some access from below. Late season hunters on public land should be prepared to deal with snow on the ground.

Camping is permitted on National Forest land. Lodging in Hot Sulphur Springs, Granby and Kremmling. Camping areas at Arapahoe National Forest and Recreation Area.