What Gear Should I Pack for My Colorado Elk Hunt at Your Ranch?
Packing appropriately is crucial for a successful and comfortable elk hunt. For your guided elk hunt in Colorado, remember to bring your preferred hunting rifle or bow, ensuring it’s of a suitable caliber for Colorado elk. Hunting apparel in layers, durable hunting boots, a reliable backpack, high-quality binoculars, and a rangefinder are essential. Don’t forget comfortable camp clothes for downtime at the ranch. We provide all linens, including towels and bedding, and our fully equipped kitchen and talented cook will take care of delicious meals. Consider bringing coolers or a freezer to transport your elk meat home after a successful hunt.
Will My Elk Hunt Take Place on Public or Private Land in Colorado?
Your guided elk hunt will primarily be conducted on our extensive leased private land. I&A Outfitters boasts access to over 50,000 acres of meticulously managed private grounds, supplemented by BLM lands under special use permits. This diverse access allows us to guide our clients through a variety of Colorado’s stunning habitats, terrains, and elevations. Notably, 95% of our guided elk hunts occur on these exclusive private leases, maximizing your opportunity and experience.
Are There Trophy Fees Applied to Your Elk Hunts?
No, we maintain transparent and straightforward pricing. The quoted price for your guided elk hunt in Colorado is all-inclusive. Whether you harvest a bull elk scoring 200” or an exceptional 350”, there are no hidden trophy fees. The hunt price remains consistent, allowing you to focus on the experience and the hunt itself.
What Size Bull Elk Can I Expect to Harvest on My Hunt?
Colorado is renowned for its healthy elk populations and impressive bulls. On your guided elk hunt with us, you can anticipate the opportunity to harvest a bull that truly represents the quality Colorado offers. Clients commonly harvest bulls scoring in the 200” range, with a realistic chance at larger bulls in the 300” – 320” class. We strive to provide a rewarding and memorable hunting experience with opportunities at mature, representative bull elk.
How Much Does a Colorado Elk Hunting Package Cost?
For detailed pricing on our guided rifle elk hunting packages, please visit our dedicated rates page. There, you’ll find a comprehensive breakdown of our various elk hunt packages and what each includes, helping you choose the perfect guided elk hunt in Colorado to match your preferences and budget.
What’s Included in the Price of a Guided CO Elk Hunt?
Our goal is to provide exceptional value and a seamless experience on your guided elk hunt. The price of your CO elk hunt package encompasses: delicious and hearty meals, comfortable lodging at our ranch, expert guide services from experienced professionals, and breathtaking Colorado views. Beyond the hunt itself, we aim to create an unforgettable and all-encompassing adventure in the Colorado wilderness.
What Expenses Are NOT Included in the Guided Elk Hunt Price?
To ensure clarity and transparency, please note that the following items are not included in the base price of your guided elk hunt:
- Colorado Hunting License & Tag: These must be purchased separately from Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
- Game Processing: While we handle the initial field dressing – gutting and skinning your elk and preparing it for processing – the actual butchering is a separate service.
- Taxidermy: If you wish to preserve your trophy elk, taxidermy services are not included.
- Alcoholic Beverages: You are welcome to bring your own alcohol responsibly.
- Guide/Cook Tips: Gratuities for our hardworking guides and cook are customary and greatly appreciated. We recommend a minimum of 10% of the hunt price for your guide and $100 per hunter or guest for the cook.
- Transportation to the Lodge: You are responsible for transportation to our lodge. However, once you arrive, we provide transportation to and from daily hunting locations.
Do You Offer Self-Guided or Semi-Guided Elk Hunts in Colorado?
No, to ensure the highest quality experience and maximize your success, we exclusively offer 100% fully guided elk hunts. Our expert guides are dedicated to providing personalized attention, in-depth knowledge of the hunting area, and strategic support throughout your Colorado elk hunt.
What is the Client-to-Guide Ratio for Elk Hunts?
To maintain a high level of personalized service and attention to each hunter, our guided elk hunts operate with a 2 clients per 1 guide ratio. This ensures you receive focused guidance and support throughout your hunt.
Can I Upgrade to a 1:1 Guided Elk Hunt?
In select seasons, upgrading to a 1-on-1 guided elk hunt experience may be possible. Please contact Earl to discuss the availability and associated costs for this personalized option.
How Do I Obtain a Colorado Elk Hunting License and Tag?
Navigating Colorado’s licensing system can seem complex, but we’re here to assist. Some elk hunting seasons in Colorado offer over-the-counter licenses, including Archery, Second Rifle, and Third Rifle. Other seasons, such as Muzzleloader, First Rifle, and Fourth Rifle, require drawing a license. Muzzleloader licenses are typically the most challenging to draw, potentially requiring 2-6 preference points for non-residents. First and Fourth Rifle licenses generally require 0-1 point. We provide comprehensive assistance with the application process to all our clients, ensuring you understand and navigate the system effectively.
What Happens After I Harvest an Elk? Will You Help Process the Animal?
Absolutely. Our guides are committed to assisting you throughout the entire process. Once you’ve harvested your elk, your guide will immediately field dress the animal, ensuring proper care in the field. The elk will then be transported using our ranch equipment to our designated skinning shed, where it will be hung, skinned, and capped if necessary for taxidermy. We also carefully remove and clean the ivory teeth for you to keep. Furthermore, we facilitate transportation to our trusted partner processor in Walden, CO, conveniently located about 20 miles north of our lodge. If you prefer to process the meat yourself at home, we will assist with quartering and packing the meat into your coolers or freezers for transport.
Can You Provide References from Past Elk Hunters?
Yes, we are proud of the positive experiences our clients have had. We are happy to provide references upon request, allowing you to speak directly with hunters who have joined us for guided elk hunts in Colorado. Additionally, we encourage you to explore client reviews on our website’s homepage. Scroll to the bottom to find testimonials, and you can also find more reviews on our Facebook and Yelp pages.
How Do I Book My Guided Elk Hunt with I&A Outfitters?
Booking your Colorado guided elk hunt is straightforward. We require a 50% deposit to secure your reservation. The remaining balance is due either 90 days before your hunt start date or by July 30th for November hunts. Contact us to begin planning your unforgettable elk hunting adventure.
What if I Need to Cancel My Hunt After Booking?
We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise. Due to our hunting schedule and Colorado’s licensing regulations, rescheduling your hunt to a different date within the same year is often not feasible. However, we do permit you to move your hunt to the following year, provided you notify us at least 60 days prior to your original hunt start date. Cancellations within 60 days of your hunt start date are non-refundable and do not allow for rescheduling.
Do You Offer Discounted Rates for Youth Hunters?
We are committed to providing the same high-quality, fully guided experience for all our hunters, regardless of age. As our commitment and effort remain consistent for youth hunters, we do not offer discounted pricing for youth elk hunts.
Are Group Discounts Available for Multiple Hunters?
Our 2:1 client-to-guide ratio is designed to effectively accommodate both individual hunters and groups. Therefore, we do not offer discounts for groups of multiple hunters. We focus on delivering exceptional personalized service to every client.
What’s the Closest Airport to Your Colorado Hunting Ranch?
Denver International Airport (DIA) is the most convenient major airport, located approximately 120 miles from our ranch. The drive takes about 3 hours, and rental cars are readily available at DIA. For shorter drive times, you can consider flying into Cheyenne, Wyoming, or Steamboat Springs, Colorado, which reduce the drive by 1-2 hours. If you have access to a private plane, you can land directly in Walden, Colorado, and we can arrange for pick-up. Please note that we do not offer airport pick-up services from any other airports besides Walden.
In Which Game Management Units (GMUs) Do You Guide?
We conduct our guided elk hunts in Game Management Units 16, 17, and 171, known for their excellent elk populations and diverse habitats.
How Physically Demanding Are Your Elk Hunts?
Our guided elk hunts in Colorado are classified as moderate to difficult in terms of physical demand. While the terrain is not excessively steep, the elevation, ranging from 8,600 to 10,000 feet, can present a challenge, especially for hunters acclimated to lower elevations. The landscape consists of rolling hills with varied habitats, from open sage flats and timber fringes to aspen groves and dark timber hillsides. Physical preparedness is important, not necessarily for mountain climbing, but for being able to move quickly to intercept elk herds and position yourself for a shot.
What Kind of Weather Conditions Can I Expect During My Hunt?
The Rocky Mountains are known for their variable and sometimes extreme weather. Be prepared for all seasons in a single day! Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically, ranging from 20°F in the mornings to 70°F during the day. Sudden storms can bring sub-freezing temperatures even in the afternoon. Layering your clothing and packing for a wide range of conditions is essential for your comfort and safety.
Do You Utilize Horses or ATVs for Hunting?
Our guided elk hunts primarily involve spot-and-stalk hunting techniques. We travel from the lodge to hunting areas in guide vehicles. From there, hunting is conducted on foot. We do not use horses or ATVs to navigate hunting areas. You’ll be actively walking and glassing, or utilizing elevated, heated blinds to glass for elk, especially beneficial on colder or snowy days.
What is Your Client Opportunity Rate for Elk Hunts?
We measure success by client opportunity rates, recognizing that “success” can be defined differently by each hunter. On average, our overall opportunity rate is around 65%. However, this can fluctuate significantly depending on weather patterns and environmental factors throughout the year. Some groups experience opportunity rates as high as 95%, while others may see rates closer to 20%. Each hunting season is unique in the free-range elk environment. We emphasize that clients booking with us are typically seeking the complete experience of a Colorado elk hunt, with the stunning landscape and camaraderie being as much a part of the draw as the harvest itself. Hunting free-range elk is a challenging pursuit, and the overall experience is truly rewarding.
Do You Charge Guest Fees for Non-Hunting Companions?
Yes, we welcome non-hunting guests if space permits at the lodge. Our priority is always our hunting clients, but if we have availability, guests are welcome at a daily rate. Please inquire about current guest fees and availability when booking your guided elk hunt in Colorado.
This comprehensive guide aims to answer your most pressing questions about embarking on a guided elk hunt in Colorado with I&A Outfitters. We are committed to providing exceptional experiences and look forward to welcoming you to the Colorado wilderness.
Please note: Pricing and availability are subject to change. Contact I&A Outfitters directly for the most up-to-date information and to book your guided elk hunt.
