Unit 501 in Colorado offers ample public land and significant game opportunities, particularly for those in search of deer and elk. While there are plenty of mature bucks, the proximity to Denver can lead to high traffic, especially from hunters, hikers, and campers. Hunters suggest focusing efforts on areas opened by the Hayman Fire for better chances, though challenges include crowds and fluctuating animal presence due to weather conditions. To increase odds of success, particularly for later seasons, it is advisable to scout thoroughly and be prepared for varying terrain and conditions, aligning expectations accordingly to optimize hunting experiences in this diverse unit.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 150"-170" | 170"+ |
| Elk | 290"-320" | 330"+ |
| Antelope | 60"-70" | 70"+ |
High
Low
The 119,790-acre Lost Creek Wilderness runs through this unit, providing a contrast between Denver, less than 50 miles to the northeast and pristine backcountry that supports many elk and mule deer. The 138,000-acre-wide Hayman Fire in 2002 burned much of the Pike National Forest that opened up thousands of acres.
Several Mountain ranges make up the higher elevations of this unit, Tarryall, Kenosha and Platte River. They traverse tree-lined mountain parks, fascinating rounded granite domes, rare granite arches a number of creeks and long canyons.
Within Pike National Forest is Lost Creek Wilderness, located approximately 60 miles southwest of Denver off of U.S. Highway 285 and County Road 57. Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport is generally prohibited on all federal lands designated as wilderness. Lost Creek Wilderness totals 119,790 acres. Elevations range from 8,000-12,400 feet above sea level. There are nearly 130 miles of trails. Wilderness permits are required. Self-issuing permits are available at trailheads free of charge.
State lands:
Various roads lead to the unit, U.S. Highway 285 southwest of Denver, County Road 77 between Jefferson and Lake George and U.S. 24 along the southern boundary. There is a good county and Forest Service road system connecting to Lost Creek Wilderness.
Sedges, forbs and willows grow in alpine tundra in the Tarryall and Kenosha mountains above 11,500 feet. Between 9,000 and 11,500 feet grow firs, spruces, aspens and pines. Below 9,000 feet are ponderosa pines, Douglas-firs, lodgepole pines, aspens, cottonwoods and willows. Shortgrass prairies below the mountains have various grasses and forbs, sagebrush and rabbitbrush.
Pike National Forest has dispersed camping along forest service roads. There are a number of small towns that might provide gas and food, but hunters who want motels, cabins, restaurants and other services should head northeast to communities near Denver such as Conifer, or to the west to Fairplay, or even to Woodland Park in the southeast.
Roughly 502 square miles
91.4% public land
Elevations from 6,880-12,335 feet
McArthur Gulch, 480 acres west of Baily on County Road 64, no hunting with centerfire rifles
Tarryall Reservoir, 711 acres on County Road 77
Many Forest service roads are not accessible by ATV
Wet weather may make secondary roads difficult to travel
The use of four-wheel-drive is recommended