Quick Tips
- Get to know landowners or pay an outfitter
- Have a map that shows ownership
- Have good optics to glass large fields and open expanses
- Buying a landowner voucher is a good way to gain access
- Waterfowl hunting by daily permit on Higel State Wildlife Area
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 130"-150" | 160"+ |
| Antelope | 60"-70" | 70"+ |
On The Ground
Part of the San Luis Valley in southern Colorado, this unit is mostly farmland north of Alamosa and Monte Vista. Antelope, mule deer and elk live here. Bottomlands of the meandering Rio Grande are between Monte Vista and Alamosa.
The Rio Grande State Wildlife Area offers public deer hunting.
Terrain
With less than 200 feet of elevation change there isn’t a lot of diversity. Nearly the entire unit is flat, irrigated farmland or nearly flat sagebrush hills. The Rio Grande River meanders along the southern boundary. Deer hunting is allowed on Rio Grande State Wildlife Area along the river.
Roughly 400 square miles
2% public land
Elevations from 7,500-7,700 feet
Vegetation
Most of the unit is composed of center-pivot-irrigated crop fields. Corners between crop circles have some cover, including sagebrush, scrub plants such as rabbitbrush, weeds and occasionally some bushes. Along the Rio Grande River are scattered cottonwood trees and creek bed brush.
Access
Public access is limited, but some landowners allow hunters to harvest animals are on their fields. Some landowner vouchers are available. Outfitters buy some of them. A lot of well-maintained roads lead to many holdings.
Camping and Lodging
Hunters can stay in motels in Alamosa and Monte Vista on the southern border and easily can drive to hunting areas. Some landowners allow camping. Hunters may camp in the parking lot of the Rio Grande State Wildlife Area where toilet facilities are provided.
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