Quick Tips
- Carry a GPS and land ownership map
- Many tourists hike and climb in wilderness
- Weather and temperature influence elevations of animals
- Be prepared for hiking in rugged wilderness
- Let optics cover ground for you
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 170"+ |
| Elk | 260"-300" | 300"+ |
On The Ground
This large and mostly remote unit is found in central Colorado and just to the northeast of Aspen. This unit is largely public and those willing to put in the physical effort can be in some excellent remote hunting opportunities. Good numbers of deer and elk can be found here but the extreme terrain and heavy vegetation can make locating them difficult at times. Physical conditioning will be necessary for hunting this unit.
Hunters who are well prepared and up to the challenge have a good chance to take great mule deer bucks. The early September rifle deer season is above timberline. Great elk hunting can be had here but hunters will need to be physically prepared for the challeneges.
Terrain
This unit is largely roadless with many steep ridgelines and deep cut drainages. Elevation gain and loss can be significant each day and being physically for these challenges will be imperative. Most slopes, particularly those that are north and east-facing, will be typically heavily timbered and will provide great bedding areas.
Roughly 294 square miles
91.4% public land
Elevations from 6,600-13,382 feet
Vegetation
Low elevations have flats and rolling hills covered with sagebrush, oak brush and a few aspens and conifers. Middle elevations consist mainly of spruces and firs mixed with large, scattered aspen groves along with ridge-top flats covered with grasses and wildflowers. High elevations have steep slopes leading to the peaks above timberline and are covered in grass, wildflowers and loose scrabble.
Access
There are a few primitive four-wheel-drive roads and ATV trails that branch from well-maintained roads and provide access to the White River National Forest. Backcountry trails are marked for hiking and horseback riding in the 82,026-acre Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness.
Good public access
Four-wheel-drive recommended
ATVs are useful here
Camping and Lodging
To camp in the wilderness areas and much of the high country, you must backpack or pack with horses. Good camping sites on public land along roads and in public campgrounds are near hunting areas, so expect to see other hunters. Modern lodging is available in Basalt and Aspen.
Be familiar with rules for camping in wilderness
Test backpacking gear in advance
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