Hunters have shared a variety of experiences and insights concerning Colorado's Unit 22, touching on topics such as point requirements, hunting conditions, and success rates in the area. The discussion indicates that draw odds for specific seasons, like the 4th rifle season for elk, might be misleading if not specified for the game type, as it varies significantly between elk and mule deer. Hunters considering this unit should be aware of fluctuating success rates, which may be impacted by factors such as weather and hunter behavior, particularly given the limited number of permits for certain hunts. Additionally, access to and hunting on private energy properties has been restricted, affecting strategies; hunters should be prepared for challenging terrain, and possibly adjust expectations for quality game due to reported declines in some populations. For new hunters to the unit, e-scouting and familiarizing themselves with terrain and movement patterns in advance will be essential for a successful hunt.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 150"-170" | 180"+ |
| Elk | 260"-300" | 300"+ |
High
Low
This large unit is found on the west side of the state and just southwest of the town of Meeker. Good densities of game animals can be found here along with an ample amount of public land. Hunters will find great glassing opportunities here but spot and stalk hunters will also be happy with a great distribution of terrain breaks.
Public access is excellent and ideal for hunters with limited mobility. Hunters who hunt hard usually find trophy class deer. There should be good deer and elk hunting near Piceance Creek and County Road 20. Be aware that private tracts along creek bottoms block easy access to much BLM land, but there is great road access in most areas. Expect to see many hunters who have bought over-the-counter elk tags.
The south part of this unit is rocky and steep with some rugged canyons and long mesas with cliffs. These steep, rugged canyons give hunters an opportunity to get away from roads and crowds. The north part is made up of BLM land with great access and has a lot of pinyon pines, junipers and sage with some steep, oak brush-filled canyons. Thick pinyon and juniper forest with small canyons and rolling ridges cover much of the unit. Game water in creeks, seeps and stock tanks in low to middle-elevation terrain. Overall, most areas will not be too physically challenging for most hunters and excellent glassing conditions can be found throughout the area.
Maintained county roads lead to BLM property at various elevations, with most roads branching off county road 5 and 22, which run north and south through the middle of the unit. Some roads are unimproved and rough, but are ideal for ATVs or side-by-sides. Deeded land blocks road access to some public land in the south.
A few pockets of pines, firs and aspens are near high points along with some meadows. Sagebrush, pinyon pines and scrub oak cover most middle-elevation land. The lower elevation areas are primarily composed of pinyon and juniper woodlands, sagebrush slopes and expanses of oakbrush.
Rangely, Meeker and Rifle have lodging, gas, groceries and other supplies but are all located just outside of the unit. Camping is permitted on almost all federal land.
Roughly 988 square miles
73.4% public land
Elevations from 5,300-8,900 feet
Well-maintained roads in the north and south
Check with the BLM to see which private property is open to public hunters
ATVs are recommended but not necessary to drive most roads
Four-wheel-drive vehicles and chains are recommended, especially in late seasons
Some remote canyons