Unit 46 in Colorado elicits mixed reviews from hunters, with some expressing curiosity about the swings in archery season success rates, speculating on factors like a good rut or skilled hunter influx as possible reasons. For mule deer and elk hunting, there's a strong interest in identifying units with better draw odds without overwhelming hunter density, with several expressing a need for clarity in success rate data across different years and seasons. The terrain, often dominated by dense lodgepole pines, challenges glassing, but those familiar with areas like Mount Evans find notable elk activity to offset this difficulty. Aspiring hunters, especially newcomers looking to successfully harvest their first animal, emphasize selecting a unit offering a balanced opportunity, evident through shared experiences and tactical advice from more seasoned participants.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 150"-170" | 170"+ |
| Elk | N/A | 280"+ |
High
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The Continental Divide creates a dynamic backdrop for the North Fork of South Platter River, portions of Mount Evans Wilderness and Pike National Forest all northwest of Bailey. Deer, elk and moose are found in timberline basins, drainages and open parks.
Peaks that reach 14,000 feet, glacial cirques, glaciers, deep canyons, headwaters of numerous drainages, ridges, draws, open parks, waterfalls, cascading mountain creeks, rocky outcrops, avalanche chutes and foothills all create a mountainous wilderness setting.
National Forest Service states; “The Mount Evans Wilderness contains small regions of arctic tundra, rare south of the Arctic Circle. Unlike typical Colorado alpine tundra, which is dry and brittle once the snow recedes, arctic tundra holds numerous small pools of water.” Bristlecone pine, barren ground willow, spruce, fir, stands of aspen and ponderosa pine, dense areas of lodgepole pine, mountain mahogany, oak brush, sagebrush and cottonwoods all create a varied landscape.
Roughly 213 square miles
75.4% public land
Elevations from 7,700-14,264 feet
Pike National Forest has improved and dispersed camping. Bailey, Fairplay, Conifer provides a variety of motels, cafés, gas, diesel and limited medical care. Nearest hospital is in Evergreen some 13 miles to the northeast.
Southern portion of Mount Evans Wilderness and thousands of acres of the Pike National forest allow backcountry experiences for all outdoor recreational pursuits. Mount Evans Wilderness is reached of U.S. Highway 285 near Grant on County Road 62, north of Bailey on County Road 43. Pike National Forest surrounds the wilderness area on three sides is reach off of U.S. Highway 285 between Conifer and Grant by taking either County Roads 60, 62 or 43. These roads connect to many forest service roads. Crooked Top State Trust land, 400 acres, is a two mile walk off Forest Service Road 101 that connects with Saddlestring Road and County Road 43 north of Bailey. Elk and Deer are present during the year.