Unit 15 in Colorado seems to present a challenging hunting experience, with a consistent theme of high hunter pressure and difficult terrain, largely due to the beetle kill blowdown. Hunters report that elk and deer are present but often elusive, possibly due to the noise and activity from numerous hunters, especially near roads and well-known trails. For those seeking more success, venturing deeper into remote areas, or targeting certain sections like the Sarvis Creek Wilderness, could be beneficial. Additionally, this unit may not be ideal for pronghorn hunting, as sightings are rare and mostly on private lands, suggesting that hunters looking for pronghorn might consider different units for better chances. Overall, thorough planning, multiple backup strategies, and a willingness to tackle tough conditions could aid in a successful hunt in Unit 15.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
| Elk | 260"-300" | 300"+ |
High
Low
Between Steamboat Springs and State Bridge on the west side of the Gore Range, this mainly-public unit is a good place for hunters who want to hunt without waiting years to draw a tag. Hunters with no preference points can draw deer tags for some seasons and can buy most elk tags over the counter.
Deer and elk have enough private land, wilderness and dense cover that some bucks and bulls survive enough hunting seasons to reach trophy size.
North of the Colorado River and southeast of Steamboat Springs, the unit is mostly public with a great deal of private property in the west. Some big bucks come off of that private land, especially in later seasons by guided hunters or guests of landowners. Sarvis Creek Wilderness covers 44,556 acres in the middle of the unit but includes no alpine tundra. Bark beetles have killed many lodgepole pines, leaving forests filled with blowdowns and standing dead trees. Dense vegetation grows in infested areas. The north end of the unit is mostly forested with pines and aspens. The south end has pinyon, juniper and sagebrush ridges. Some peaks range from 8,500-11,000 feet above sea level. Deer live at all elevations, but many migrate to lower elevations in late October and early November.
Road access is good in most of the unit. Private land takes up much of the western half, which is reached from roads that branch from Highway 131 and pass through private land. Some roads branch from Highway 40 in the north and Trough Road in the south. Access roads lead to the edge of Sarvis Creek Wilderness. Trucks need tire chains if the roads get snowy. To avoid crowded hunting, get away from roads.
Engelmann spruces mingle with lodgepole pines in the high country. Douglas firs, aspens, grass meadows and sagebrush grow at middle elevations, while pinyon/juniper woodlands, sagebrush, oak brush, grasses and other browse grow in the lower terrain. There are many springs, small lakes and perennial streams.
Yampa City, Steamboat Springs and Oak Creek have lodging, gas, groceries and other supplies. Camping permitted at Stagecoach State Park and on all federal land.
Roughly 492 square miles
67.2% public land
Elevations from 6,100-11,000 feet
Well-maintained roads in the north and south ends
A GPS unit with land ownership overlay can help you to avoid trespassing
ATVs are recommended but not necessary
Snow and rain can impede travel
A lot of remote areas to hunt