Unit 140 in Colorado offers opportunities for elk, bear, and antelope hunting, but hunters emphasize the significant challenges of high hunting pressure and difficult terrain, notably the locust bushes thriving post-fire. Many highlight that public access is limited and often requires a special permit, especially in areas like the James M. John State Wildlife Area—a key factor that new hunters in the area should be acutely aware of. Those with private land access or an outfitter may have a different, more rewarding experience, but for public hunters, the experience can feel limited and frustrating, given the dense hunter population and sparse game sightings. Prospective hunters should prepare for access issues and consider alternative units or engaging with landowners for access opportunities to enhance their hunting success.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 170"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 120"-140" | 140"+ |
| Elk | 280"-320" | 320"+ |
| Antelope | 70"-75" | 75"+ |
High
Low
Southeast of Trinidad and northeast of Raton elk like high mesas and canyons, antelope are out on the open flats, mule deer prefer ridges and foothills and whitetails stay along creek bottoms.
Trophy class bucks and bulls are found on private ranches and public lands are only accessible by foot or horseback. Consider hiring an outfitter to access private ranches.
Wide rolling prairie, arroyos, hills, and ridges change abruptly into long steep canyons and high broad mesas. Major drainages are Purgatoire River, San Francisco and Trinchera Creeks.
State land: Lake Dorothey 4,500 acres from Raton use New Mexico Highways 72 and 526 to County Road N up Sugarite Canon. Big Game hunting restricted to archery only. Deer and elk are present during the year. Access restricted to foot or horse back from designated parking areas. James M. John 8,200 acres is 4 miles northwest of Lake Dorothey. Access restricted to foot or horseback. Rifle hunting only for deer and elk. Open from April 2 to November 30.
Shortgrass prairie consisting of buffalo and blue grama, pinion/juniper, ponderosa pine, Gambels oak, groves of aspen with spruce and fir on north facing slopes.
State land: Lake Dorothey camping only in designated areas 200 feet away for shoreline or 100 feet away from creeks. Raton and Trinidad are the closest towns that provide motels, restaurants, gas, diesel, groceries and medical facilities.
Roughly 459 square miles
3.8% public land
Elevations from 5,414-9,544 feet
Country and secondary roads become slick in wet weather
Four wheel drive vehicles recommend