FIRST ELK HUNT

[dgron9810]

My son and i are planning our first elkcation in november during third rifle season. Have plans to stay in Rico. Looking at this area it seems to have a lot of interesting history ( early mining town) to go with the scenery and hunting. Will try and hunt units 70 and 74 east of town. Any information from last years hunting whether from prevoius hunters or residents will be greatly appreciated. Thank you . Dwayne sorry I meant unit 71 and 74 did not proof read

[js80138]

I have not hunted the units you mentioned in your post, however I do know the area and travel there for work once a quarter. Here is a link for the 2015 statistics for that area (2016 haven't been published yet). It looks very promising as the success rate is higher than many units. Especially ones I hunt.

https://cpw.state.co.us/Documents/Hunti ... tGuide.pdf

When you say 70 and 74 know that getting to one or the other during third rifle may be alot of work. Ophir Pass can quickly take you between the units. 4-wheel drive is mandatory in good weather. During 3rd rifle you may have an early snow that will dictate your route and the Pass could be closed. This will force you to go around and HWY 550, The Million Dollar Highway, is the most anxiety filled road I have ever travelled. That was during good weather and few other drivers on the road. The Highway has been added to the "World's Most Dangerous Roads" list. Do a search on Google or YouTube to see examples.

Start getting fit now. Your going to need to all the strength and endurance you can muster to hunt in this area.

[dgron9810]

I am sorry I meant unit 71 not 70 But doesn't 578 north of Rico cut to Hermosa Creek

[js80138]

Yes 578 north of Rico gets you to Hermosa. My previous statements are still true regarding the weather. It could be 65 degrees or it could be in the 20's with a foot of snow. My main point would be to prepare for any and everything. Hunting 70/71 will eliminate travelling HWY 550. Also get fit. You will be in steep country for this hunt. You may shoot up high but harvest at the bottom.

[dgron9810]

Did anyone hunt area 71 and 74 east of rico this past year . Any contact people or info would be appreciated . Thanks Dwayne