elk hunt

[hill boy]

I havent't been on an elk hunt in several years.I'm not man enough to pack in and out without pack animals anymore and I dont own any at this time.besides that, colorado wants a vet examination etc.Anyway I have rented lamas but its 5hours out of the way from where I normally hunt.drop camps are a little pricey and can't tell what your going to get.I would be willing to change locations or rent animals near a good location.I don't do 4wheelers.or maby a group deal.Any suggestions would be appreciated

[bowdude]

Boy - you don't leave much but a walk in from the road.   Like your statement though.

[**DONOTDELETE**]

I know guys that do a "drop camp" thing...they have an outfitter pack you in on horse back, drop you off in a base camp, leave you pack horses to hunt with, a radio, then pack your elk out for you.....kinda spendy...but it you don't leave a lot of other options open there bro....

[John Scifres]

There are places where elk can be had without the 5 mile pack in thing.  I recommend a change of scenery.  You might have more company but you still have a good chance by day hunting out of a trailhead or campground.  Lots and lots of people do it every year.

[hill boy]

With those reply's maby I should ask if anyone would recommend a public land location that would be huntable on day hunts.I try to do alot of research on the net but it's overwhelming and it's really hard to feel it out unless you have been there.I dont expect any secret spots to be revealed just maby a point in the right direction.And if anyone wants in on a trip.The more the better.Thanks for the replys  

[John Scifres]

Try the White River National Forest near Trapper's Lake.  The Flattops Wilderness is pretty good but you will have company.  Still, you can get into elk.  Look for places where you might have to wade a small river or go way around some private land.  Think differently than others.  Most folks want a trail you want access.  You never really know until you get there but discovery is half the fun.

[**DONOTDELETE**]

Drive west till you hit the pacific ocean....stop...turn around and face due east...you'll see a mountain range full of elk. some of the steepest forbidding jungle like country you'll ever want to hunt too....But!!!!!
you can hunt out of a day pack just about anywhere and get into elk...

[Dave2old]

Hill Boy -- John's suggestions are good. Otherwise and in general, come to the West Slope rather than the Front Range. Rio Grande NF has tons of elk, but unit 76 is draw-restricted and the whole forest is essentially infested with ATVs, ruining everything for all who'd rather hunt than ride. San Juan NF is my favorite. Go on the net to their site and look for maps showing roadless areas (IRAs), wilderness areas, and the road system. Search for a place where a road runs adjacent to a wilderness or an IRA with no motorized trails (IRAs allow them) nearby. Find a place to camp along the road and hike in until you escape the road sounds, a mile or more depending on terrain, and you should be in as good a shape as any of us without horses or llamas. We're talking elk at 8,000' feet to above timberline, so choose an elevation you can handle. You don't have to go high. Always hunt uphill, so you can pack out your meat downhill. Average cow or young bull reduces to 3 or 4 50lb. loads of boned meat. If you can find a friend to come with, all the better. Have fun, dave

[hill boy]

I like this info men.I will do some more research on the San Juan and white river.especially since its a reasonable drive.I hunted a couple spots in parts of the san jaun years ago and seen my share of elk even helped a partner pack out a bull with lamas.but its to far in.I'll find a place in these areas and just try to enjoy the hunt.I haven't taken a elk yet and feel I have a score to settle.Turned down some cow shots because of having to pack out so far.Might just take one this year.Thanks for the encouragement.any info is appreciated.Thanks

[Inhimwelive]

How much does it cost to rent Lamas? Any info on where to rent them?

[Doug S]

How about a caddy. If you know a stout kid or to who would like to go to the mountains plus get a little jingle you'd be set. Lots of camp chores and a little scouting the other hill to do, and they would never forget it.

[hill boy]

I think we paid 25.00 a day witch is fine.The only problem was they are a long way from the trailhead.about 2 1/2hours.It's been a long time but I think it was around durango and probably on the internet.

[hill boy]

Hey doug, not a bad idea,the last time i went a momma bear and 2cubs ate all our food.be my luck they would get eatin by a bear

[Dave Lay]

hill boy... "I dont do atv's" good for you!!  are you sure you are from Arkansas, where they almost issue ya one???

[hill boy]

Walking in the woods is half the fun.Growing up I ran a trapline of several miles before school many mornings on foot.Probably the best time in my life.You just can't learn much riding a noisy 4wheeler.I owned one and used twice on a road to my stand.I can do that with a pickup.don't like hearing those things when I'M trying to hunt. :mad:or in my yard at night etc.Yep born and raised in the ozarks between white river and the north fork.believe it or not.I need a mule