At a Glance
Quick Tips
- Bearproof your camp
- Preseason scouting increases hunter success
- Get away from roads
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | Dummy | Dummy |
| Elk | Dummy | Dummy |
| Antelope | Dummy | Dummy |


Unit 4, Colorado, garners mixed reviews from hunters, primarily due to the challenging terrain and fluctuating game activity. Many suggest that the unit's high-altitude areas require good physical preparation and emphasize the importance of scouting during different seasons to understand elk behavior effectively. Draw odds are seen as competitive, highlighting the need for strategic planning and application timing. Hunters also advise focusing efforts on less trafficked areas to increase the chances of a successful hunt, pointing to the value of adaptability and readiness to adjust plans based on real-time conditions.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | Dummy | Dummy |
| Elk | Dummy | Dummy |
| Antelope | Dummy | Dummy |
This unit is found in northwest Colorado and features decent public access. Good populations of deer, elk, and antelope can be found here although trophy potentials rarely amount to anything jaw dropping. Hunting pressure can be tough during the OTC seasons and hunters will need to plan for this.
Recent winter storms have taken tolls on all animal populations in this unit. But, desirable spring conditions have been great for fawn/calf recruitment. It may take several years for herd densitites and trophy qaulity to return to normal levels.
Bears Ears Peaks, part of the Elkhorn Mountains is visible from Craig. Black Mountain is the highest peak in the unit. The lower elevations are not strenuous, but the middle and higher elevations can be strenuous in areas. Physical conditioning will be important when trying to distance yourself from other hunting pressrue.
Good public road access to Forest Service, BLM and state land.
The lower elevations are covered with sage and shrubs. Middle elevations have oak brush, grass, sage and ponderosa pines. Higher elevations have aspens, spruce and ponderosa pine with open parks.
Freeman Campground is north of Craig. Primitive camping throughout Routt National Forest. Craig has all services. The Elk Run Inn is moderately priced but comfortable. Carelli's Italian Restaurant and Fiesta Jalisco are popular among locals. Food, gas and motel rooms are available in Baggs, Wyoming, where the Cowboy Inn gets good ratings.
Roughly 500 square miles
47.6% public land
Elevations from 6,400-10,800 feet
State Trust Lands
BLM land from Fortification along US Hwy 13 to the Wyoming border
Expect snow in the first rifle season at higher elevations
Four-wheel-drive recommended during rifle seasons
Freeman Campground open mid-June through October
Freeman Reservoir stocked with rainbow and brook trout
Bakers Peak
Willow Creek
Cedars