Quick Tips
- Cabela's 50 miles to the northeast
- Waterfowl hunting along the South Platte
- Use GPS to determine land ownership
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 150"-170" | 170"+ |
| Antelope | 70"-75" | 75"+ |
On The Ground
Situated south of the Wyoming and Nebraska state line, hunters may find trophy antelope and mule deer bucks on Pawnee National Grasslands or on large private ranches. Outfitters report very high success on both trophies.
Finding water holes that are being frequently used is one key to a successful antelope hunt. There is gas and oil exploration here. Use GPS to establish land ownership.
Terrain
Distinctive vertical Pawnee Buttes and rolling prairie of Pawnee National Grasslands distinguish this area in eastern Colorado. A number of creeks drain the unit toward the South Platte River which is some 20-30 miles away.
Roughly 686 square miles
21.2% public land
Elevations from 4,400-5,500 feet
Vegetation
Prairie shortgrass, sagebrush on mesas, willows and cottonwoods along creek bottoms provide cover in the majority of the unit. There are some irrigated croplands growing alfalfa near Hereford that provides a sharp contrast from the surrounding grasses.
Access
Pawnee National Grassland provides close to 200,000 acres, within units 87 and 88, of public land. The area is a checkerboard of National, state and private-land ownership. Most state lands are leased, limiting access for hunters. There is a good system of county roads due to oil/gas exploration and production in Weld County. Colorado Route 71 marks the eastern boundary, Wyoming and Nebraska state line creates the northern boundary, County Road 390 defines the western edge and Colorado Route 14 forms the southern boundary.
Four wheel drive recommended on secondary roads
Wet weather may create some impassable roads
Seasonal road designation on Pawnee National Grasslands
Refer to Pawnee National Grassland Motor Vehicle Use Map
Interstate 80 about 30 miles north
Interstate 76 some 30 miles southeast
Camping and Lodging
Crow Valley Recreation Area near Briggsdale offers RV and tent camping facilities. Sterling, about 35 miles to the southeast has many motels, restaurants, medical centers, gasoline and other services. Sidney, Nebraska is about 50 miles to the northeast provides motels, restaurants and gasoline. Cheyenne, Wyoming some 50 miles to the northwest provides world famous hospitality along with hotels, motels, restaurants and other facilities and services a hunter might need.
Gallagher's River City Grill in Sterling
Gas available in Briggsdale
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