Hunters with experience in Colorado's Unit 135 express that the rut for elk is mainly in mid-November, tapering off by early December. The unit is challenging for hunting due to the predominant presence of elk on private lands and a scarce public land population. Additionally, prolonged drought conditions have severely affected archery antelope hunting on public lands, with most water sources either dry or near main roads where hunting pressure is high. Prospective hunters should proceed with caution, as setting up blinds without adequate protection can be risky; experienced hunters suggest exploring alternative locations due to these challenges.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 130"-150" | 150"+ |
| Antelope | 65"-75" | 75"+ |
High
Low
Southwest of La Junta are thousands of acres of the Comanche National Grasslands. Mule deer, antelope, elk and whitetails roam this area of vast prairie.
A few whitetails are found along the Purgatoire River on private land.
A vast rolling prairie beside Purgatoire River and Canyon. This area has many side canyons, numerous hills, a broad river valley, bluffs and long arroyos.
Comanche National Grasslands Timpas Unit is between La Junta north and south of US Highway 350, west of Colorado Route 109 and north of the Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site. County and secondary roads lead to thousands of acres on the national grasslands.
Shortgrass prairie with buffalo and blue grama grass, pathces of sandsage, yucca, cactus, some long native grasses on Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) lands and some cottonwoods along creek bottoms.
La Junta in the northeast provides motel, restaurants, gas and medical facilities. Rocky Ford north, along US Highway 50 has gas and small cafés.
Motels:
Restaurants:
Roughly 741 square miles
42.7% public land
Elevations from 4,066-5,611 feet
Comanche National Grassland OHV maps and restrictions
Wet weather makes county and secondary roads slick and rutted
Four wheel drive recommend
Holiday Inn Express
Midtown
Travel Inn
Travelodge
Copper Kitchen
Bamboo Panda
Mexico City Café