At a Glance
Quick Tips
- Early snow storms can create hazardous travel
- Four-wheel drive recommended
- Carry chains, extra water and gas
Hunters considering Colorado's Unit 34 face mixed reviews, primarily due to its high hunter pressure and limited mature deer population. While this unit is favorable for hunters building points due to accessible public land and reasonable draw odds, many express frustration over crowded access roads and concentrated hunting activities, particularly in seasons with variable weather. Those equipped for backcountry endeavors might find success by distancing themselves from heavily trafficked areas and focusing on transition zones and vegetated areas for deer and elk. Overall, this unit offers opportunities for the prepared and flexible hunter, but expectations should be tempered with readiness for challenging conditions and high competition.
North of Glenwood Springs is the White River National Forest which provides thousands of acres for elk and deer. This unit is made up largely of public land and hunters will find little trouble in locating areas to hunt. A good number of roadless areas are present and will important for hunters to key in on in an effort to reduce some of the hunting presusre.
Big country and good numbers of deer and elk. Hunters will find a plethora of hunting opportunities here but escaping the crowds, as always, can be problematic.
This unit has a large distribution of the typical roadless high areas of Colorado with heavy timber, open slopes, and many alpine lakes. Hunters will find a good selection of roadless hunting areas but fully escaping hunting pressure can be a tall order. Physical conditioning can play a pivotal role in success for any hunt here.
White River National Forest can be reached along eastern portion on Coffee Pot Road from the Colorado River Road. Transfer Trail deep in White River National Forest intersects with Coffee Pot Road and Canyon Creek Road. Canyon Creek Road heads north off US Highway 24. This unit has great ATV access.
Sagebrush, pinyon/juniper, ponderosa pine, cottonwoods, willows, bitter bush, aspen, oak brush, mountain mahogany, lodgepole pine, open parks of lush grasses, blue spruce, Douglas fir covered foothills, mountains, ridges and creeks.
Modern lodging and other amenities can be found in Glenwood Springs in the south-central portion of the unit as well as in Gypsum, located just outside of the unit. Mainitained campgrounds can be found within the unit and camping is permitted on federal lands.
Roughly 280 square miles
92.2% public land
Elevations from 5,706-11,182 feet