San Juan Mountain Elk Hunting

The San Juan Mountains, located in Southwesternlicense fee amounts. Hunting hours being thirty
Colorado, are reported to have some of the bestminutes before sunrise and conclude thirty
elk hunting anywhere. It is estimated thatminutes after sunset. Only those elk with four
Colorado's elk population is just under 300,000,points or more are legitimate targets. Elk hunting
and it is also estimated that Colorado has twoseason begins at the end of August and
times more elk than any other state. This makesconcludes in mid-November with specific dates set
San Juan Mountain elk hunting popular for thoseand seasons set for: archery, muzzle loading, and
elk hunters looking to bag that record bull.rifle hunting.
However, since some of the peaks of the SanThe Hunt
Juan Mountains rise to 14,000 feet and there areBefore heading out into the mountains, there are
many slopes and ridges, it is important for elkfew things that will be important to consider in
hunters to be in good physical condition beforecreating an enjoyable and successful elk hunt.
heading into the San Juan Mountains. CoveringFirst, it is important to know where to find elk. Elk
about 12,000 square miles in Colorado, much ofare usually found where there is food and cover.
the San Juan Mountains are very remote withIn dry weather, elk are more likely to be found in
some areas, approximately 40 square miles,the higher elevations. During cold weather, elk are
having no paved roads. Much of the area ismore likely to be found in the lower elevations.
accessible only by jeep or by foot. The San JuanSecondly, because the weather conditions can
Mountains are located in Game Management Unitschange fairly quickly while elk hunting, it will be
70 through 78.important to be well-prepared. Not only is it
Rules and Regulationsnecessary to be in good physical condition, but
As with any other type of hunting, rules andhaving the right clothing and gear is essential. San
restrictions apply to San Juan Mountain elk hunting.Juan Mountain elk hunting can be challenging to
Licenses are required for both in-state andeven the most experienced elk hunter due to
out-of-state hunters. Licenses can be purchasedterrain and weather conditions. Thirdly, mapping
prior to the hunting season at most sportsout the area of the hunt will be important
equipment retailers as well as the Coloradobecause when that record bull is snagged there is
Division of Wildlife offices. After the huntingstill the challenge of getting the bull back to camp.
season has begun, licenses can only be purchasedKnowing the rules and regulations and preparing
through the Division of Wildlife. On-line licenses areadequately ahead of time can lead to a successful
also available. The 2008 license fee is $525, andand pleasurable elk hunt in the mountains of
according to the Division of Wildlife, licenses soldColorado.
until April 2009 will continue to be sold at the 2008