Featured Elk Hunting Trips

Private Land Guided Elk Hunts - Bulls in Velvet & Hard Horned!

We operate all our hunts from our base location in the north end of the San Luis Valley. We have elk hunting available on over 100,000 acres of private land for bull and cow elk. These hunts are on large private ranches where we access the properties by 4WD and hunt by spot and stalk.

Our Mission - Provide quality hunts in the best locations to ensure Success

“As avid hunters ourselves, we have had the privilege of hunting this valley and the surrounding mountains for many years. Our knowledge of the land and its game, and our many years of Colorado Elk hunting will help you have a great hunt”

• Fully Guided All Inclusive Hunts; Fully Guided Hunts
• All meals included
• Cabin Lodging
• Fully Guided Hunt
• Quarter, Cape & Pack out of animal
• Landowner Voucher included

We promise to provide you with the best outfitting services in Colorado. While we are the best in the industry we still maintain very competitive prices for the best outfitting services.

Our Rates are second to none and though we try to be as accurate as possible here, please call us for an exact quote on your needs!

Base price is per person for a Fully guided hunt.

4.5-Day Idaho Elk & Mule Deer | Rifle

Base Price is for a 4.5-day Unguided Hunt. Make it a Semi-Guided or 3x1, 2x1, or 1x1 Guided hunt for an additional fee. Non-hunters are an additional fee per person.

*6% Sales tax included

Elk and mule deer combo hunts in the Bear River Elk Zone & Bannock Elk Zone. We offer guided elk hunts, semi-guided or unguided elk hunts, guaranteed elk hunts, Cow Elk Hunts, horseback drop camps, or DIY Elk Hunting Maps for do-it-yourself elk hunters.

Hunt Areas

Elk & mule deer hunts are conducted in Southeast Idaho's Bear River Elk Zone & Bannock Elk Zone. This is very scenic and productive elk and mule deer country.

Success

Shot opportunity on the general elk and mule deer hunts usually averages 50% to 80%. Shot opportunity in the controlled hunt units usually runs from 75% to 100%.

Fully Guided 4.5 or 5-Day Hunts Include:

• Lodging and Meals
• 1 to 3 hunters per guide
• Your guide will field dress, skin, and pack out your game.

Lodging

Choose indoor lodging and meals or a remote tent camp. Arrive 2pm-4pm, shoot weapons before sunset, hunt each day, move out of your room the last morning, hunt until noon and then depart.

Routine

Wake up to a continental breakfast, leave early to get in the hunt area before dawn, take a sack lunch or you can return mid day for lunch, your dinner will be ready when you return in the evening.

Methods

Hunting methods may include glassing openings in canyons and hillsides and then stalking if needed, watching water sources, and hiking or still hunting on mountain trails and on high ridges.

Quality

Trophy quality can be good, we see bulls with antlers ranging from spikes to 7x7's, an average bull elk probably has a 5x5 rack, but several bulls over 300" are seen every elk season.

Game Care

Your guide will field dress, skin, quarter, and pack out your game. You can debone meat or pack quarters in coolers to take home. Taxidermy and butchering are both available locally if desired.

Mountain Ranch in Paonia, CO - Recreation, Hunting, High-Speed Fiber Internet

Seclusion, privacy, access to the mountains, and great hunting but only 10 minutes to town! Please the hunter and their partner looking for a relaxing Colorado getaway. We have the perfect combination of assets to make both people happy, with outstanding views, a gorgeous home, acres of beautiful mountain land, excellent hunting, National Forest access out the back door, a year-round creek, and only 10 minutes from town!

Assets Include:

• 387 total acres - approximately 50 irrigated acres
• Beautiful 2,100 square-foot custom log home - 3 BR, 2 BA
• 880-square-foot caretakers home
• Historic log settler’s cabin
• Borders National Forest, BLM lands
• Excellent Deer & Elk hunting with GMU 53 tags
• Paved Year-Round Access
• 9 minutes to Paonia, CO
• High-speed fiber internet, natural gas
• Year-round creek close to the house

The Hunt

This ranch offers excellent hunting for trophy Bulls, Savvy hunters know that GMU 53 produces some of the biggest in CO, and this ranch is ideally located. The elk come down from the high country during the late season and will winter on the ranch giving you a great opportunity to harvest a trophy bull.

Your hunt will be completely self-guided.

2025 Hunt Dates, Prices, and Minimums

Week 1 Archery - Sep 2 - 7 - $2320 - Minimum of 3 Hunters

Week 2 Archery - Sep 9 - 14 - $2610 - Minimum of 3 Hunters (Booked)

Week 3 Archery - Sep 16 - 21 - $2890 - Minimum of 3 Hunters

Week 4 Archery - Sep 23 - 30 - $3185 - Minimum of 4 Hunters (Booked)

Week 1 Rifle - Oct 15 - 19 - $3475 - Minimum of 3 Hunters

Week 2 Rifle - Oct 25 - Nov 2 - $3765 - Minimum of 4 Hunters (Booked)

Week 3 Rifle - Nov 8 - 16 - $4055 - Minimum of 4 Hunters

Week 4 Rifle - Nov 19 - 23 - $4345 - Minimum of 2 Hunters

Ask about group rates

Base Price is for the 1st week of Archery Season. Book other weeks for an Additional Fee

Additional Fees Apply if looking to add on a Bear Tag.

$100 Opportunity Fee to the Owner.

$500 Fee if Successful.

Be sure to discuss with booking agent before adding on a Bear tag.

Note*

When you select a hunt with Dorado Elk Lodge, the 50% deposit is Non-Refundable in accordance with Dorado Elk Lodge's cancellation policy.

Your deposit may be applied towards rescheduling a future trip, and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Choose your Location:

1) Unit 11

Unit 11 in northwest Colorado is a renowned destination for elk hunters seeking a mix of public and private land opportunities, varied terrain, and access to a healthy elk population. Located near the towns of Meeker and Craig, this unit is part of the state’s famous northwest elk range, offering excellent chances for both rifle and archery hunters.

• Upper Coryell's Property
• 4 Hunter Min
• Approx. 2200 Acres
• Lodging Included (Wall Tents)

• Pinon Ridge Property
• 2 Hunter Min
• Approx. 640 Acres
• Lodging Included (Wall Tents)

• The Keystone
• 4 Hunter Min
• Approx. 3000 Acres
• Lodging Included (Wall Tents)

• Smith Gulch Property
• 4 Hunter Min
• Approx. 1000 Acres
• Lodging Included (Wall Tents)

*Hunters might have to have a side by side or quad to get into the camp location.

2) Unit 33

Unit 33 in Colorado is a prime elk hunting destination known for its high success rates, varied terrain, and robust elk population. Located in the western part of the state, near the towns of Rifle, Silt, and New Castle, this unit is part of the White River Elk Herd range—the largest elk herd in North America. With a mix of public and private land, Unit 33 offers diverse opportunities for hunters, from rugged wilderness to more accessible lowlands.

• High Country - Dodero
• 4 Hunter Min
• Approx. 160 Acres with approx. several thousand of hard-to-get to National Forest Land behind closed gates.
• Lodging Included (Rustic Cabin)

• High Country - Grand Hogback
• 4 Hunter Min
• Approx. 160 Acres with approx. several thousand of hard-to-get to National Forest Land behind closed gates.
• Lodging Included (Wall Tents)

3) Unit 52

Unit 52 is located in the southwest corner of Colorado, in the San Juan Mountains, and is part of the Southwest Colorado elk management area. The unit encompasses the area near the towns of Pagosa Springs and Durango, with a mix of rugged mountains, valleys, and high plateaus. Known for its excellent elk population, Unit 52 offers a variety of hunting opportunities in a beautiful and diverse landscape.

• WOA Cedaredge Ranch
• 4 Hunter Min
• Approx. 400 Acres with approx. 7000 of hard to get to BLM land and National Forest access on The Grand Mesa
• Lodging Included (Wall Tents)

Why go DIY?

A DIY rifle elk hunt in Colorado is a dream adventure for many hunters who seek independence, challenge, and a deep connection with the outdoors. Colorado, home to the largest elk population in North America and vast expanses of public land, offers an unparalleled opportunity for self-guided hunters to test their skills and experience the thrill of the hunt on their terms.

A DIY rifle elk hunt in Colorado is perfect for hunters who embrace the thrill of self-reliance, enjoy exploring vast wilderness, and value the reward of hard-earned success. For many, it’s not just about harvesting an elk—it’s about the journey, the lessons learned, and the connection to the wild.

Here are some of the reasons hunters choose to book a DIY hunt:

Affordable

• DIY hunts are more cost-effective than guided hunts, as hunters handle their own planning, logistics, and execution.
• Expenses like guide fees and outfitting services are eliminated, leaving more room in the budget for gear and travel.

Freedom

• DIY hunting allows hunters to operate on their own schedule and adapt to changing conditions without external constraints.
• Self-guided hunters enjoy the satisfaction of scouting, navigating, and harvesting their game without relying on a guide.

Challenging

• A DIY hunt requires self-reliance, persistence, and problem-solving, offering a rewarding sense of accomplishment when successful.
• Hunters often value the steep learning curve and growth that come with planning and executing a DIY hunt.

Flexibility

• DIY hunters can choose their preferred methods, whether it’s spot-and-stalk, still-hunting, or ambushing elk near travel corridors.
• Hunting pressure and elk behavior can be managed based on personal strategies and observations.

North Eastern New Mexico Unit 42, 27, 56, & 59

100% Private Land | 100% Fair Chase | Landowner Elk Permit Included

The very strong and predictable advantage on a late private land elk hunt is “Bachelor Bull Patterns” The older, larger bulls will leave the cows and move into the lower canyons and ridges and the more isolated pockets to build back energy and body weight to get through the winter. If you don’t mind a little colder weather, some of the highest-scoring trophy bulls have been taken at this time of year in these areas.

Having Private Land for these bulls to seek refuge in from previous Public Land Hunting pressures also makes the late-season hunts a smart choice for quality Trophy Bull opportunities.

Meals and lodging are NOT included in any hunt price. When a hunt is booked, we will send a list of area motels, restaurants, and Airbnbs in the area for you to choose from.

All hunts include a highly sought-after Private Landowner Elk Permit to GUARANTEE the purchase of your state hunting license (no drawing). Once multiple states announce their draws, these private land tags are the only guaranteed method of hunting elk in New Mexico if a hunter was unsuccessful in the Draw. The longer you wait, the higher demand these hunts become.

The Season

• Rifle Early Bugle Hunt: Oct. 7-11
• Rifle Hunt: Oct 14 - Nov. 20
• Late Season Rifle: Nov. 20-Dec. 31 (Base Price)

Cold Weather Hunts:

• October: You can expect morning and evening temperatures from around 30-50 degrees, with daylight hours ranging between 50-70
• November: Mornings average temperatures mornings and evening generally range from 10-30 with daylight hours ranging from 35-65 with an average of about 45
• December: Weather is similar to November, with average temperatures dropping approximately 2-6 degrees below November averages.

Merino Wool is naturally moisture-wicking and will help eliminate some body odor. Consider a base layer of socks, boxer briefs, and top and bottom long underwear in Marino wool, followed by varying-weight Marino wool layers you can add or remove during the day depending on weather conditions. Outer layers should be both waterproof and lightweight. A lightweight down vest weighs nothing and takes up little space in your field pack. A waterproof softshell jacket that can be added over the top of all of your layers, it should be large enough to accommodate several base layers including your down vest, too small and it could prevent the perfect shot. A warm/heavy down jacket is recommended if you’re hunting late in the year when expected weather conditions will be cold. You don’t have to carry all of your layers with you into the field, but it’s better to have them in the vehicle if you need them so you don’t lose a hunt day. Kuiu has a great layering system

Base price is per person for a 5-Day Early Bugle Rifle Hunt (Oct 7-11). Make it a 5-Day Regular or Late Season Rifle Hunt for an additional fee per person.

Lodging and Meals are NOT included - Local Recommendations will be Provided

State Elk License NOT Included

Join us for a world-class guided elk hunt in the rugged backcountry of Western Colorado. Whether you're chasing the rut with a bow, dialing in with a rifle, or taking on the challenge of a muzzleloader hunt, this adventure is built for serious hunters.

Stand/Blind Hunts: Due to the thick vegetation - Our hunts are best out of fully enclosed blinds, brush blinds, and ladder stands. Giving any hunter the ability to come out on a hunt with us!

No Points Needed: No matter if you are hunting Elk, Mule Deer, or Bear. This area allows for easily drawn tags or tags purchased over the counter.

Private Land: Gunnison County, Bear Creek Lodge(8,000 acres of private land)

The ranch is located north and west of the small coal mining town of Somerset, CO. The ranch is remotely located 6 miles off the highway, in some of the best elk hunting grounds in Colorado. Deer, bear, grouse, and varmint are also found on this ranch. The main cabins are centrally located, and a well established road system makes for easy access to all hunting and recreation areas. This ranch offers access to over 17,000 acres of prime terrain known for quality hunting.

Lodging: There is a 3000 sq. ft. main game room that has an attached kitchen, dinning area for sixteen, Pool table, Big screen T.V. seating for eight, and laundry. The game room also has WIFI for our guests convince.

There are four separate bunkhouses on this ranch, ranging in capacity from eight to two. One main house (pictured) sleeps eight and is equipped propane heat, potable running hot and cold water, two showers, two toilets, as well as propane and electric lighting. Clean, outdoor sanitary facilities are close to all cabins. Corrals with live water are available for members’ horses.

Combo Hunts Available: Hunters can add a mule deer or bear hunt for half price!

Low Pressure: We limit the number of hunters on this ranch to twelve (12) during all hunting seasons. Archery, Black Powder, and Rifle seasons are sold as five day hunts additional days may be arranged.

What's Included

• Experienced Guides – Professional, local guides with extensive elk hunting knowledge
• Lodging & Meals – Comfortable accommodations and home-cooked meals provided
• Transportation – Field transportation included during the hunt
• Game Care – Field dressing and quartering assistance
• Trophy Opportunity – Hunt for mature bulls in a high-success unit

Base Price is for a 5 Day Hunt. If you are booking the last week of September or a 2nd or 3rd Rifle Hunt it will be a Discounted 4 Day Hunt. See Pricing Below

Game Unit: 521

Elevation: 7,600′ to 9,700′

YOUR HUNT

3-Day Semi-Guided Hunt

Priced Per Person

The unit that our ranch lies within is called the South Slope/Diamond Mountain Unit. We have a good number of elk on our property and to get you a cow won't be a problem.

Each client will go on a three-day, semi-guided hunt. The price includes lodging and meals in our campers or cabins, guiding, skinning and trophy care. Quality taxidermy is available with a recommended local taxidermist. We also guide limited-entry hunters.

After booking, each client will be provided with an in-depth packing list, along with average temperatures and recommended gear.

SEASON DATES

Rifle hunts are in October-End of the Year

Visit Utah's Antlerless Elk Hunts (https://wildlife.utah.gov/plan-your-antlerless-hunt.html) page for more information and tag purchase.

4-Day Fully Guided Cow Elk Hunt

Hike on private ranch land with spot and stalk hunts. You will see large herds of cows, spike, and trophy class bull elk. Elk will be called in.

Typical hunting days will begin with a warm breakfast and an explanation of planned hunting activities for the day. We will then pack our lunch and refreshments for the day. Next is the transport to the applicable hunting area for whichever animal is being hunted. Upon arrival, we will spend the day locating, stalking, and pursuing the targeted animal. When harvested, the appropriate animal will be cleanly dressed and packed out of said hunting area for meat processing and taxidermy. All animals will be checked in with Game and Fish officials. Supper will be prepared at the end of day for hunters.

Price is per hunter for a 4-Day Cow Elk Hunt. Meals and lodging included.

Base price is per person for a Self-guided drop camp style hunt. Make it fully guided for additional fee at checkout. All trips are seven days in length and include five full days of hunting with pack days on either end.

From drop camp self-guided hunts to fully guided hunts with all the comforts you need, we are prepared to provide you with all necessary equipment to have the ultimate Elk Hunting adventure!

Our Mission - Provide quality hunts in the best locations to ensure Success

“As avid hunters ourselves, we have had the privilege of hunting this valley and the surrounding mountains for many years. Our knowledge of the land and its game, and our many years of Colorado Elk hunting will help you have a great hunt”

Types of Elk Hunts - We have a variety of Colorado Elk Hunts available. Pick one that suits your style, or call us to discuss your needs!

• Self-Guided Drop Camp: Drive-in or Horseback Accessible
• Full Camp Set up
• Overview of the area & good spots to hunt
• Available guides will pack out your elk
• Fully Guided All Inclusive Hunts; 2x1 or 1x1
• All meals included
• Full Camp Set Up
• Quarter, Cape & Pack out of animal

Where We Hunt - The mountains surrounding the San Luis Valley are full of elk and our hunts can’t be beat.

We also hunt from multiple camps in our traditional high country basin area of unit 681. These camps offer us the best opportunity to get hunters on great bulls high on the mountain, and if the elk is low, we can always drop down. Guided hunts are typically on a 2x1 basis and we run small camps, usually with only four hunters per camp. Single hunters are welcome as we will match hunters as necessary.