At a Glance
Quick Tips
- Be mobile and willing to move camp
- GPS and a good land ownership map recommended
- A lot of tourists hike and climb in wilderness
- Weather and temperature influence elevations of animals
Unit 231 in Colorado offers a mixed experience for hunters with both high pressure and potential success, largely due to its heavily trafficked nature. Many hunters report the necessity of deep scouting and venturing into less accessible areas near wilderness regions for better chances at tagging elk. While historical anecdotes suggest the presence of large bulls, current conditions indicate they are rare and often elusive, with a disappointing age survival rate of bulls due to hunting pressure. Despite the challenges, there are reports of productive hunts, with some hunters achieving success by adjusting strategies based on seasonality and the behavior of cow and calf groups during the later seasons. It's important to be prepared for the competition from both public hunters and outfitters, and to respect any potential access issues with nearby private lands.
Located in the northwestern part of the state, covered by much of the Routt National Forest this unit holds healthy herds of both mule deer and elk. With the Flat Tops Wilderness being part of the unit, it gives hunters a chance to hunt some unique terrain.
The Flat Top Mountains run from north to south on the western half of the unit, which is part if the Routt National Forest. They have peaks reaching well above timberline at 11,500 feet. The Flat Tops Wilderness is in the southwestern part of the unit. Between the mountain peaks and the valley is covered in rolling ridges and creek drainages covered in conifer and aspen forest.
Primitive four-wheel drive roads and ATV trails branch off a few well-maintained roads that access much of the national forest land. Wilderness and backcountry trails are marked for hiking and horseback riding. Some of the middle and lower elevations are private land.
Low elevations—Flats with rolling hills covered in sagebrush, grass, ponderosa and oak brush. Middle elevations—Mostly spruce and fir trees mixed with large, scattered aspen groves along with flats covered with grass and wildflowers on ridge tops. High elevations—Steep slopes leading to the flat mountain tops above timberline that are covered in grass, wildflowers, and loose rock scrabble.
To camp in the wilderness and much of the high country, you must backpack or pack in with horses. Good camping sites on public land along roads are near hunting areas, so expect to see other hunters. Yampa, located on the east side of the unit has lodging and supplies.
Roughly 178 square miles
64.1% public land
Elevation from 7,200-12,000 feet
Four-wheel drive recommended
Bad weather can limit vehicle travel
Limited access and private land in much of the north and east
Be familiar with rules for camping in wilderness areas
Test backpacking gear in advance