Quick Tips
- Carry a GPS and a good land ownership map
- A lot of tourists hike and climb in wilderness
- Weather and temperature influence elevations of animals
- Be prepared for hiking in rugged terrain
- Let optics cover the ground for you
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
| Elk | N/A | 290"+ |
On The Ground
The small but very rugged unit is found in central Colorado and just southeast of Aspen. This is area is largely public land, much of which is entirely roadless. Backcountry hunters will find plenty of opportunities here but day hunting can still be very effective. Good deer and elk numbers can be found here but the difficulty in traversing the rough terrain can make locating them difficult at times. Physical conditioning will be important when hunting here and preseason preparation can make a huge difference.
Hunters who are well prepared and up to the challenge of hunting hard in roadless terrain have a good chance of seeing good mule deer bucks. There is an early September rifle deer season above timberline. Good elk hunting conditions can be found here although locating mature bulls can still be. achallenge.
Terrain
One of Colorado’s smaller units, this unit is almost entirely high elevation and composed of high mountains and basins leading down to steep creek drainages. Much of the high country is part of the 167,584-acre Collegiate Peaks Wilderness. Most of the basins have headwaters to many of the streams that run down to the valley. the terrain here is very steep and will definitely test the physcial conditiong of any and all hunters.
Roughly 104 square miles
86.9% public land
Elevations from 8,000-13.988 feet
Vegetation
Middle elevations mostly consist of spruces and firs mixed with large, scattered aspen groves along with ridge-top flats covered with grass and wildflowers. High elevations are typically steep slopes leading to peaks above timberline are covered by grass, wildflowers and loose scrabble.
Access
A few primitive four-wheel-drive roads and ATV trails branch off well-maintained roads that access much of the White River National Forest. Backcountry trails are marked for hiking and horseback riding. Taylor Pass, Castle Creek and Richmond Hill roads offer access to the backcountry. Highway 82 runs along the north end of the unit.
Good public access
Four-wheel-drive recommended
ATVs are helpful
Camping and Lodging
Most hunters typically opt for primitive camping here as most of the hunting is centered around backpacking. Good pull-out locations can be found along public roads for truck camping. Modern lodging, groceries, and some gear can be found in Aspen.
Aspen is the only nearby town with lodging.
Be familiar with rules for camping in wilderness
Test backpacking gear in advance
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