Unit 21 in Colorado offers various hunting opportunities, though recent conditions have posed significant challenges. Winter 2017-2018 was notably dry, impacting antler growth, while the area has seen increasing hunting pressure and droughts that make some consider it less desirable for deer, though third-season hunters may encounter migrating herds. For elk, the terrain is rugged with sparse water sources, and despite potential access issues due to oil wells and roads, some hunters find success away from main roads. Given these factors, it's crucial to thoroughly research, be prepared for limited access to water, and possibly consider alternative units with similar or better draw odds and game conditions.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 150"-170" | 180"+ |
| Elk | 260"-300" | 300"+ |
High
Low
South of Rangely and the White River, Unit 21 is east of the famous Book Cliffs in Utah and has good public access and abundant elk and mule deer. Some elk tags are sold over the counter, while all deer tags are limited. Hunters take many mature bucks.
Hunters and biologists have reported a dip in quality in recent years, but hunters who hunt hard usually find trophy class deer. Occasionally, a high quality buck is taken from the White River area in the north. Be aware of private land in the south. Lots of elk hunters who have bought over-the-counter tags have success since there is great access to most public land. Some outfitters also have prime private leases and private access to isolated BLM land.
This unit runs from the Utah border to the Cathedral Bluffs and Calamity Ridge in the east and from the White River in the north to Rat Hole Ridge, Baxter Pass and Douglas Pass in the south. The south part is rocky and steep with some rugged canyons, long mesas with cliffs around the edges and drainages that mostly run from east to west. Most of the best hunting territory for elk and deer is between 7,500 and 8,800 feet above sea level. The north part is made up of BLM land with great road access. The north end is primarily winter range. Animal numbers increase after mid-October. Before October deer and elk are found at high elevations in the south. Big game finds water in creeks and pockets in low to middle elevations.
Maintained roads lead to BLM property at various elevations, most roads branching off Highway 139, which runs north and south through the middle of the unit. Some roads are unimproved and rough more ideal for ATVs or side-by-sides. Deeded land blocks road access to some public land.
High-elevation land is timbered with pines, firs and aspens. There are also some meadows. Middle-elevation terrain is comprised of canyons that are primarily covered with sagebrush and scrub oak with pockets of aspens. Pinyon and juniper woodlands, sagebrush slopes and expanses of oakbrush grow in low terrain.
Rangely has lodging, gas, groceries and other supplies. Camping is permitted on almost all federal land.
Roughly 888 square miles
87.6% public land
Elevations from 4,300-8,900 feet
Well-maintained roads in the north and south
ATVs are recommended but are not necessary on most roads
Four-wheel-drive vehicles with chains are recommended, especially in late seasons
Lots of remote canyons