Quick Tips
- Be in the good physical condition
- Have realistic goals and be honest about your expectations
- Listen to the landowner, outfitter and guide
- Insist on prime hunting dates
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
| Elk | 280"-320" | 330"+ |
| Antelope | 60"-65" | 70"+ |
On The Ground
Bordering New Mexico and next to Alamosa, this unit is almost all private land, much of it in the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Ranch owners manage elk herds on their land to produce trophy-size bulls and mature mule deer.
Hunters typically have multiple chances at several bulls. This is great habitat and limited hunting access because this is a private land hunt only allow mule deer to reach maturity.
Terrain
The rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains run from north to south in the eastern half of the unit. Peaks reach well above timberline, peaking from 11,500 feet to more than 13,000 feet above sea level. Creeks drain down to 7,500 feet on the San Pedro Mesa and in the San Luis Valley. Much of the valley is flat farmland with rolling sagebrush hills. There is waterfowl hunting in the Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge in the northwest.
Roughly 1,252 square miles
3.5% public land
Elevations from 7,000-13,500 feet
Vegetation
Low elevations—Flats with rolling hills covered in sagebrush, grass, pinyon pines and juniper trees, agricultural fields on the valley floor with scattered cottonwood trees along creeks. Some areas have ponderosa pines and oak brush. Middle elevations—Mostly spruce and fir trees mixed with large, scattered aspen groves along with flats covered with grass and wildflowers on ridges. High elevations—Steep slopes leading to the peaks above timberline are covered in grass, wildflowers and loose rocks.
Access
Numerous primitive four-wheel-drive roads and ATV trails branch off a few well-maintained roads, accessing much of the backcountry.
Some roads are closed at times by landowners or outfitters with private leases
Most outfitters provide transportation
Camping and Lodging
Most ranch owners and outfitters provide lodging. If you arrange a hunt that does not include gear and accommodations, contact the landowner to see whether camping in a tent, motor home or trailer is allowed. Lodging is available in Alamosa, which is in the northwestern corner of the unit.
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