Hunting Unit 142 in Colorado presents unique challenges and opportunities, primarily due to its location on the Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site, which is managed by Fort Carson. Hunters face several access hurdles, including obtaining Army permission, adhering to specific regulations, and dealing with potential closures for military training, which can restrict access to prime elk and antelope areas. Despite these obstacles, the unit's appeal lies in its extensive public lands, offering opportunities for elk, particularly in the archery and late seasons, when finding water sources is crucial. Hunters report variability in game presence and accessibility, with some success stories and others opting to hunt adjacent units due to unpredictable area closures.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 170"+ |
| Elk | N/A | 280"+ |
| Antelope | 65"-75" | 75"+ |
High
Low
This unit is traditionally known for having trophy-size mule deer. However, deer numbers have been drastically reduced in an experiment to control chronic wasting disease. The U.S. Army controls access to parts of this unit.
Army officials no longer consider this a trophy mule deer area, emphasizing that managers have allowed an overharvest as researchers study several ways to control chronic wasting disease.
The unit has flat plains crossed by arroyos that drain into the Purgatoire River by many deep canyons. A number of steep plateaus and rugged ridges complete the landscape.
To hunt on Fort Carson or Pinon Canyon you need to comply with four requirements: buy a recreational permit, attend a safety briefing, register firearms and get a downrange pass. ATVs are not allowed.
Shortgrass prairie consisting of buffalo and blue grama grasses, areas of pinyon/juniper, sagebrush, yucca, bitterbrush, Russian thistle and cottonwoods.
A primitive campground is half a mile north of the main entry gate along US Highway 350. Potable water and porta-potties are available. Trinidad, some 30 miles southwest and La Junta, about 40 miles northeast provide a wide variety of motels and restaurants, gas, diesel and medical facilities.
Roughly 368 square miles
99.8% public land
Elevations from 4,429-5,742 feet
Firing ranges and some other areas are closed to hunting
Youth hunters must have an adult mentor
Scouting is permitted, but hunters must comply with access requirements
The Army rarely restricts weapons to bows and arrows, muzzleloaders or shotguns
Off-road driving is permitted only to retrieve game