Top Hunting Places in Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Glenwood Springs, Colorado, positioned at the confluence of the Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers, offers access to some of the most game-rich and scenic hunting grounds in the Rocky Mountains. Surrounded by national forests, rugged canyons, and expansive meadows, this region is a top destination for big game hunting including elk, mule deer, and black bear. For hunters seeking a combination of challenging terrain, accessible public lands, and abundant wildlife, Glenwood Springs delivers a premier experience.

Public Hunting Lands in the Glenwood Springs Area

Glenwood Springs is encircled by White River National Forest and BLM-managed lands, which together offer hundreds of thousands of acres of public hunting territory. These lands span steep alpine basins, oak brush hills, and river valleys, all of which support diverse wildlife populations.

White River National Forest

• Size: Over 2.3 million acres, one of the most heavily hunted forests in the state
  
• Species: Elk, Mule Deer, Black Bear, Moose, Mountain Lion
  
• Terrain: Mixed conifer and aspen, alpine meadows, steep canyon draws
  
• Access Points: South Canyon, Four Mile Road, Coffee Pot Road, Transfer Trail
  

This national forest is known for hosting some of the largest elk herds in North America and has long been a staple for both resident and non-resident hunters.

Top Game Management Units (GMUs) Near Glenwood Springs

The area surrounding Glenwood Springs spans several GMUs, each with unique terrain profiles and hunting regulations.

GMU 24

• Species: Elk (OTC), Mule Deer (limited), Bear
  
• Known For: High elk density, accessible terrain
  
• Access: East Divide Creek, Four Mile Park
  
• Popular Season: Archery and second rifle
  

GMU 25

• Species: Elk, Mule Deer, Bear, Moose
  
• Top Spot: Flat Tops Wilderness (excellent backcountry hunts)
  
• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous hikes
  
• Pro Tip: Popular for wilderness pack-in style hunting
  

GMU 34

• Species: Elk and Mule Deer
  
• Access: Adjacent to Rifle, CO; terrain more open and lower in elevation
  
• Good For: Early-season bear and deer hunts
  

GMU 43

• Species: Elk, Mule Deer, Bear
  
• Highlights: Steep and rugged terrain but low pressure
  
• Access: Transfer Trail to Storm King Mountain and beyond
  

Best Hunting Seasons and Species

Glenwood Springs supports over-the-counter elk hunting opportunities, limited mule deer draws, and active bear seasons. Below is a breakdown by season and species.

Elk Hunting

• Seasons:
  
  • Archery: Late August – September (during the rut)
    
  • Muzzleloader: Mid-September
    
  • Rifle: Late October – Mid-November
    
• Units: GMUs 24 and 25 are both OTC for second and third rifle seasons
  
• Success Tip: Hunt ridge tops and north-facing timber during mid-day hours
  

Mule Deer

• Limited Entry Tags: Draw required in most units
  
• Best Time: 3rd Rifle season (rut movement begins)
  
• Prime Areas: South Canyon and lower elevations with oak brush
  

Black Bear

• Active Seasons: Early September to mid-October
  
• Strategy: Focus on natural food sources (berry patches, acorns)
  
• Add-On License: Often available as a secondary tag with elk/deer
  

Moose and Mountain Lion

• Moose: Very limited draw, primarily in GMU 25 (Flat Tops)
  
• Mountain Lion: Available in winter; requires pursuit and hounds
  

Guided Hunts and Outfitters in Glenwood Springs

Hunters interested in professional support or access to private ranches will find multiple outfitters in the area.

Deep Creek Outfitters

• Specialty: Elk and deer hunts in GMU 24 and 25
  
• Services: Guided archery and rifle, horseback pack-in hunts
  
• Location: North of Glenwood near Deep Creek Plateau
  

Vapor Trail Outfitters

• Coverage: Access to both public and leased private land
  
• Highlights: Drop camps and full-service guided hunts
  
• Unique Feature: 100% fair-chase with game scouting included
  

Where to Camp or Lodge During Hunting Season

Depending on your style—DIY camping or comfort lodging—Glenwood Springs has the right setup.

Camping

• Four Mile Park: Excellent base camp with access to GMU 24
  
• Deep Lake Campground: Access point for Flat Tops Wilderness
  
• Dispersed Camping: Available in BLM areas south of town
  

Lodging

• Hotel Colorado: Historic, centrally located, and hunter-friendly
  
• Glenwood Canyon Resort: Cabins with outdoor access, ideal for small hunting groups
  

Hunting Gear Essentials for Glenwood Terrain

Due to elevation changes and unpredictable weather, hunters in Glenwood must pack smart:

• Layered clothing system (merino base layers, waterproof shell)
  
• Rifle or bow zeroed for steep angles
  
• GPS device or OnX Hunt app
  
• Lightweight game bags, Tactical Soft Rifle Cases
  
• Bear-safe food storage
  
• First-aid and survival gear for remote units
  

Licensing and Regulations

All hunters must follow Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW) guidelines:

• Habitat Stamp required for all licenses
  
• OTC tags: Available for elk in most units
  
• Limited tags: Mule deer, bear, and moose require draw
  
• Mandatory Bear Check: All harvested bears must be inspected
  

Applications for draw tags are due in early April. Leftover and OTC licenses are released mid-summer.

Local Tips from Western Colorado Hunters

1. Scout Late Summer: Elk patterns change quickly with weather—find water and bedding areas.
   
2. Don’t Overlook the Midday Window: Animals often move from dark timber to shady benches.
   
3. Glass Early, Hike Late: Spotting at dawn and moving on sign during midday is an effective pattern.
   
4. Avoid Heavily Trafficked Trails: Venture past the first 1–2 miles from trailheads.
   
5. Know Wind Patterns: Thermals shift drastically in mountain canyons—play them right.
   

Why Glenwood Springs is a Top Colorado Hunting Hub

• Central Location: Easily accessible from I-70 yet surrounded by rugged wilderness
  
• OTC Opportunities: Elk hunting without the hassle of a draw
  
• Diverse Terrain: Hunt river valleys, alpine ridges, and oak-covered hills in the same day
  
• Amenities: Soak in hot springs after a tough hunt, access to great local meat processors and taxidermists
  

Glenwood Springs strikes a rare balance between wild backcountry hunting and convenient in-town amenities—making it one of Colorado’s top destinations for hunters who want the best of both worlds.