Elk Hunting
At Big Horn Outfitters, we offer both non-guided and fully guided archery, muzzleloader and/or rifle elk hunts. We hunt in Colorado GMU's 4, 214 & 441 and hold a Special Use Outfitting permit in the Routt National Forest. Choose from a range of options, including horseback pack-ins, drive-up camps and custom pack trips, all tailored to your preferences. Join us for a fair chase hunt that combines adventure, camaraderie and a deep appreciate for nature.
Colorado Elk Hunting License
Colorado Preference Points
In our hunt units 4, 214 & 441 elk tags are distributed based on a draw and preference point system. Hunters can apply for one preference point per species per year and points are not transferrable between hunters. Applying for a preference point must be done during the primary draw that runs in March of each year.
Youth License
Youth ages 12–17 can apply for an elk hunting license or preference point. Youth age 11 can also apply for a point, provided they turn 12 in the year they are applying.
Group Applications
If you are elk hunting in a group we recommend applying for a license as a group. Preference point priority is based on the member with the fewest points. If a member of your group is a youth, they will need to apply separately. See “Apply as a Group for Hunts” at: cpw.state.co.us/apply-for-group-hunts
Hunter Education Requirements
Anyone born on or after January 1, 1949 is required to have a hunter education card to hunt or apply for a license in Colorado. Your card must be carried with you at all times while hunting unless you get your card verified and marked by the CPW office. Colorado honors hunter education cards from other states, provinces and countries.
HUNTER EDUCATION EXEMPTIONS
Individuals over age 50 or active duty U.S. military and veterans can obtain a hunter education certificate by testing out of hunter education: cpw.state.co.us/hunter-education-test-out
An apprentice certificate can be obtained for hunters who are at least 10 years old (age 12 for big game) and who must be accompanied by a mentor in the field. This hunter education waiver can be obtained twice in a lifetime: cpw.state.co.us/apprentice-certificate
Where to Apply
Please visit www.cpwshop.com to apply or purchase your hunting license. Please note that all seasons are now draw only and the application for these hunts must be received prior to the deadline.
Elk Hunting Season Dates
Archery Season
September 2 - September 30
- Combined Deer and Elk season
- Unit 4, 214 & 441 - No over the counter license- Draw only
Muzzleloader Season
September 12- September 20
- Combined Deer and Elk Season
- No over the counter license- Draw Only
Rifle Seasons
1st Rifle- October 14- October 18
- Bull Elk
- No over the counter license- Draw Only
- Elk Only Season
2nd Rifle- October 24 - November 1
- Combined Deer/ Bull Elk Season
- No over the counter license- Draw Only
3rd Rifle - November 7- November 15
- Combined Deer/ Bull Elk Season
- No over the counter license- Draw Only
** All hunt seasons are draw only . While we will try to help you in applying for the draw and provide guidance on the process, we cannot guarantee tags for any season. Hunters are ultimately responsible for ensuring all tags are pulled for your correct unit and species. Please refer to CPW for all hunting regulations and requirements.**