Colorado hunting seasons are set annually by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) and vary by species, weapon type, and hunting unit. The big game seasons generally run from late August through November, with archery, muzzleloader, and rifle seasons for elk, deer, pronghorn, and moose, plus spring and fall seasons for turkey and small game.
How Colorado Hunting Seasons Work
Colorado divides the state into hunting units (numbered areas, e.g., Unit 20 or Unit 82) that have specific season dates and license quotas. CPW sets season dates each year, usually published in the spring in the Big Game Brochure and Small Game Brochure. Seasons are species-specific and weapon-specific, meaning you cannot use a rifle during an archery-only season. The main big game species are elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, pronghorn, moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat. Small game includes turkey, pheasant, quail, partridge, grouse, rabbit, and squirrel.
Big Game Season Dates (Typical Year)
Exact dates change yearly, but the general structure is consistent. For elk and deer, the typical seasons are:
- Archery: Late August through late September (about 30 days).
- Muzzleloader: Mid-September for about 9 days.
- Rifle: Usually three or four separate seasons in October and November, each lasting 5–9 days (e.g., First Rifle, Second Rifle, Third Rifle, Fourth Rifle).
Pronghorn seasons are shorter and often occur in September and October, with archery, muzzleloader, and rifle windows. Moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat seasons are limited-entry (draw-only) and typically run in September and October. Spring turkey season is in April, and fall turkey season is in September and October.
How to Apply for Licenses
Colorado uses a draw system for most big game licenses. You apply online through the CPW website during the application period, which usually runs from early March to early April. You can apply for a limited license (draw) or purchase an over-the-counter (OTC) license for certain units and species (e.g., OTC elk licenses in many units). The draw has a preference point system: if you don’t draw, you earn a point that increases your odds in future years. Licenses are also available for purchase in person at CPW offices and some sporting goods stores, but limited licenses are only available through the draw. Non-residents pay higher fees than residents, and a Hunter Education certificate is required for all hunters born after January 1, 1949.
Choosing a Season and Unit
Your choice depends on your weapon, experience, and hunting style. Archery seasons offer more days and less hunting pressure but require close-range shots. Muzzleloader seasons are a middle ground. Rifle seasons are the most popular and have the highest success rates but also the most hunters. For elk, the rut (mating season) peaks in late September, making archery and muzzleloader seasons prime times for calling. Rifle seasons in October and November coincide with the tail of the rut and the start of winter migration. Units with limited licenses often have larger animals and less competition, but they are harder to draw. OTC units are easier to get but may have lower success rates. CPW publishes harvest statistics by unit, which can help you compare success rates and animal quality.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
One common mistake is not checking the specific unit regulations. Each unit has its own season dates and license quotas, so a season that is open in one unit may be closed in another. Another issue is hunting on private land without permission—Colorado has a mix of public and private land, and trespassing is a serious offense. Weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so always pack for snow and cold, even in September. Altitude sickness is a real risk for hunters coming from lower elevations; acclimate for a day or two before hunting. Finally, many hunters forget to wear blaze orange during rifle seasons; CPW requires at least 500 square inches of fluorescent orange above the waist during rifle seasons for big game.
Costs and Budgeting
License fees vary by residency and species. Resident elk licenses cost around $50–$60, while non-resident elk licenses are over $600. Deer licenses are cheaper, roughly $30 for residents and $300 for non-residents. Limited licenses for moose, sheep, and goat are more expensive and require a draw. In addition to licenses, you need a Habitat Stamp ($10) and a Colorado Hunting Atlas (free online). If you plan to hunt waterfowl, you also need a federal duck stamp ($25) and a Colorado waterfowl stamp. Budget for gear, gas, lodging, and meat processing (if you are successful). Many hunters also pay for a guide, which can cost $3,000–$8,000 for a full-service elk hunt.
Safety and Ethics
Hunter education is mandatory for all hunters born after 1949. The course covers firearm safety, ethics, wildlife identification, and survival skills. Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded, and never shoot at movement or sound—positively identify your target and what is beyond it. Be aware of other hunters, especially during rifle seasons. Wear blaze orange and avoid hunting near roads or buildings. After a kill, field-dress the animal promptly and cool the meat to prevent spoilage. It is also illegal to waste game meat; you must make a reasonable effort to retrieve and use the meat. Respect private property and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Alternatives to Rifle Hunting
If you prefer a different experience, Colorado offers archery (compound, recurve, or crossbow during archery season), muzzleloading, and handgun seasons for big game. There is also a separate youth season (usually in late September) and a veteran/military season. For those who want to hunt without a firearm, there is falconry (hunting with birds of prey) and bowfishing for rough fish. If you are not interested in killing animals, you can still enjoy wildlife viewing or photography, which are popular in national parks and wilderness areas. CPW also offers a mentored hunting program for beginners, where you can learn from an experienced hunter.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need to apply for a Colorado big game license?
The application period is typically March 1 to April 5 each year. You apply online at the CPW website. If you miss the draw, you can still buy over-the-counter licenses for certain units and species, but limited licenses are only available through the draw.
Can I hunt elk with a rifle during archery season?
No. Archery season is limited to archery equipment only (longbow, recurve, compound bow, or crossbow during archery season). Using a rifle during archery season is illegal and can result in fines and license revocation.
Do I need a hunter education certificate to hunt in Colorado?
Yes, if you were born on or after January 1, 1949, you must have a valid hunter education certificate from any state or province. You can take the course online or in person through CPW. The certificate is valid for life.
What is the best time to hunt elk in Colorado?
The best time depends on your goal. For calling and rut activity, late September during archery or muzzleloader season is ideal. For a chance at a large bull, the first rifle season (mid-October) is popular. The later rifle seasons (November) can be good for migration patterns, but weather is more unpredictable.
Can I hunt on national forest land in Colorado?
Yes, most national forest and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land is open to hunting, but you must follow CPW regulations and any specific forest or BLM rules. Some areas may be closed to hunting or have restrictions. Always check the CPW hunting atlas for land ownership and access.
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