Colorado Unit 20 Private Land Muzzleloader Elk

Colorado’s Unit 20 is located in north-central portion of the state. Within this world-class elk hunting unit you will find a large portion of Rocky Mountain National Park (265,000 acres). Naturally, hunting in the park is not allowed. This provides critical sanctuary for bulls to grow to maturity.

The private ranches that are utilized for theses hunts contain a mixture or spruce, fir and aspen trees as well as low lying oak and willow brush. Hay fields can also be found in many of the low lying areas which act a magnet for elk.

Muzzleloader hunts are conducted using a mixture of hunting techniques including calling, spot & stalk, sitting on known food sources as well as over water. The style of hunt will be largely dependent upon what stage of rut the bulls are in while afield. Although these ranches do have road networks, hunters should be capable of hiking two to three miles per day in semi-rough terrain. A mixture of pickups and four wheelers will be used to assist in accessing the ranches.

Unit 20 is managed as one of Colorado’s few “quality elk units”. Here a strict bull to cow ratio of 45/100 is found. This creates an intense rut that will typically begin in early September and run into the first week of October. The unit is home to amazing genetics and age structure comparative to the state as a whole. Shot opportunities at bulls ranging in the 290-320 (6X6) class are extremely high. Each year these ranches will produce one to two bulls exceeding the magical 350 inch mark. The largest bull taken by this outfitter officially grossed 400 and netted 386.

After a rewarding day’s hunt you can expect to return a modern and comfortable ranch house. This facility will contain all of the comforts of home. A full time cook/caretaker will be present to ensure delicious home cooked meals are served daily and the house is clean and in order.

Colorado’s draw system is a true preference point system. This means whomever applies with the most points is awarded said tag. As of 2023, non-resident will need 12 or more points to ensure a successful muzzleloader elk draw in Unit 20.

If you have questions regarding this hunt, have drawn a tag and now wish to locate the right outfitter, or would like assistance applying into the Colorado elk draw – please contact WTA TAGS at 1-800-755-TAGS(8247) or email us at TAGS@trophyadventures.com