Unit 60 in Colorado presents a challenging hunting landscape characterized by dry conditions and high hunting pressure, especially during rifle seasons, which can deter some hunters. Elk migration into the area is heavily weather-dependent, with more success likely during periods with significant snow in Utah, which pushes elk across state lines. While hunters have reported finding elk on BLM land, success often requires early positioning, extensive scouting, and knowledge of local pressure points. It's advisable for hunters to prepare for hard work in rugged terrain and to consider the unit as a scouting opportunity during more congested rifle seasons, potentially focusing on quieter pockets and planning for fluctuating conditions and ATV traffic.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 170"+ |
| Elk | 280"-320" | 320"+ |
| Antelope | 60"-65" | 65"+ |
High
Low
A triangular unit that covers only about 270 sq.miles of mostly public land that borders Utah’s La Sal Mountains. Great access by many roads, remote areas require extensive backpacking or horseback riding to get away from well-traveled, easy access routes.
There is a moderate number of elk unless they migrate from the La Sal Mountains as well as low numbers of deer. There are also very few antelope in the unit with most bucks and bulls mostly nocturnal due to heavy ATV/UTV traffic.
Elevations range from desert lowlands at about 5,000 feet to a wooded plateau and several mesas at 6,000 to a little more than 8,000 feet above sea level on the Utah border. Below are sandstone rimrocks, steep slopes and deep canyons. Some areas that were burned off in wildfires offer ample food supplies for elk and deer, permitting viewing by binoculars early in mornings and just before dark.
Roads on BLM and Forest Service ground offer good success. The limited private acreage is clearly marked, and hunters can skirt the perimeter of private lands to reach public land with relative ease.
The higher terrain is covered with juniper, oakbrush, pinyon pines and ponderosa pines with sagebrush and grass on some of the mesas. Vegetation at the low elevations is sparse, mostly low bushes and grass.
Either stay in the field, camping along dirt roads, or travel back to Naturita or Gateway for motel, fuel and food. Reservations might be required during tourist seasons. Both towns are 30-40 miles from hunting sites in the unit.
Roughly 270 square miles
81.8% public land
Elevations from 5,000-8,000 feet
Four-wheel-drive and tire chains recommended
UTVs/ATVs necessary on some roads
Some roads are rocky
Some road difficult to travel or impassable after rain, snow and wind