Quick Tips
- Fishing and rafting on the Yampa River
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 170"+ |
| Elk | 260"-300" | 300"+ |
| Antelope | 70"-75" | 75"+ |
On The Ground
The area northwest of Craig is known for having large herds of elk and mule deer during late fall and winter. Antelope live here year-round. Some elk and mule deer spend springs and summers in the nearby Routt National Forest.
Lots of bulls are in this area from mid-October to the end of winter. There is heavy hunting pressure during rifle seasons so locating mature animals can take some effort.
Terrain
Sharp ridges, long dry gulches, undulating croplands, intermittent flowing creek beds, wetlands along the Yampa River, large rolling hills and gentle mountains create a very diverse landscape. Glassing opportunities are great here but still hunting will still be necessary to see into the many hidden folds in the land.
Roughly 369 square miles
15.5% public land
Elevations from 6,100-7,500 feet
Vegetation
Sagebrush, bitterbrush, oak brush, yucca, short grasses and dryland wheat grow in lowlands. Pinyon/juniper woods cover many rolling hills. Some cottonwoods grow in river bottoms and along creeks.
Access
US Highway 40 runs between Craig and Maybell, connecting county roads heading north or south that lead to BLM tracts. County Road 3 goes north of Craig through the middle of the unit, until it connects with Colorado Route 13, a few miles south of the Wyoming line. On Colorado Highway 13 north of Craig are 866 acres of state lands at Fortification. Access and hunting is controlled by a private ranch. The secondary road system is good unless there is wet weather.
Roads turn slick and muddy
Four-wheel-drive traction recommended
ATVs can be used on BLM roads
Camping and Lodging
Craig has been showing western hospitality to hunters for more than 50 years and has motels, restaurants, RV parks, campsites, grocery stores, gas stations, repair shops and medical facilities.
Motels:
Elk Run Inn
Super Eight
Hampton Inn
Valley Vista Inn
Restaurants visited by locals:
Tin Cup Grill
Vallarta’s Mexican Restaurant
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