At a Glance
162Square Miles
70.7%Public Land
9,500 - 13,822Elevation Range
Quick Tips
- Trout fishing in North Platte River
- Try panning for gold in streams
- View bison herds south of Hartsel
Unit 500 in Colorado generates mixed reviews with a common consensus on its challenging terrain, which can be steep and rugged, requiring physical preparedness. Hunters have reported variable success rates, noting that the elk are scattered, and knowledge of their seasonal movements is crucial for a successful hunt. Additionally, early scouting and understanding historical draw odds can significantly enhance the chances of a successful hunt. Overall, sharing insights and experiences within this unit helps hunters anticipate conditions and refine strategies for navigating and hunting effectively.
West of U.S. 285 between Kenosha Pass and Fairplay and east of the Continental Divide, this unit supports large herds of elk and mule deer. Moose numbers are increasing, and antelope numbers are stable. Hunters must draw a tag to hunt any big game animal here.
State controls on hunting pressure have resulted in good hunting for every big game species in this unit, which is about 50 miles southwest of Denver.