DIY Colorado Elk Hunt on Private Land (Rifle)

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.