The Ultimate Guide to Booking a Drop Camp Archery Elk Hunt in Western Colorado
- Jerad Cotten
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
Booking a drop camp archery elk hunt in Western Colorado offers a unique and immersive experience for hunters seeking adventure and challenge. West Elk Outfitters provides expert guidance and access to some of the best elk hunting grounds in the region. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about planning and booking your drop camp hunt, from understanding what a drop camp entails to preparing for the rugged terrain and maximizing your chances of success.
What Is a Drop Camp Archery Elk Hunt?
A drop camp hunt means pack animals transport you to a remote camp location deep in the wilderness, away from roads and developed areas. This setup enables hunters to access prime elk habitat that would otherwise be difficult to reach. Unlike base camp hunts, drop camps offer a more authentic backcountry experience, often requiring more physical effort and self-sufficiency.
Archery elk hunting adds an extra layer of challenge and skill. Hunters rely on stealth, patience, calling, and close-range shots, making the experience rewarding for those who enjoy a true test of their abilities.
Why Choose West Elk Outfitters for Your Hunt?
West Elk Outfitters offers a sweet drop camp archery elk hunt in Western Colorado. Their knowledge of the terrain, elk behavior, and seasonal patterns ensures a well-planned hunt. Here are some reasons to consider booking with them:
Dependable Stock: They have a team of horses and mules that are used to the trail and terrain.
Comprehensive Support: From initial booking to post-hunt processing, they assist every step of the way.
Quality Equipment: Camps are equipped with durable tents, cooking gear, and safety supplies.
Sustainable Practices: They follow ethical hunting and conservation principles.
How to Book Your Drop Camp Hunt
Booking a drop camp archery elk hunt with West Elk Outfitters involves several steps to ensure your trip matches your goals and skill level.
Step 1: Choose Your Hunt Dates
Elk hunting seasons vary by region and weapon type. Archery seasons in Western Colorado typically run from September 2nd through the end of September. Early booking is essential as spots fill quickly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Paperwork and Licenses
You must obtain the proper Colorado hunting licenses and tags. West Elk Outfitters can help guide you through the application process, including draw deadlines and regulations. Their hunt area 63 is easy to draw with no points and tags have been left over.
Step 3: Plan Your Gear and Physical Preparation
Drop camp hunts require packing all your gear on your back or with pack animals. Essential gear includes:
Lightweight backpacking tent and sleeping system if your going to spike out
Archery equipment tuned for elk hunting
Weather-appropriate clothing and boots
Navigation tools like GPS and maps
Food and water purification supplies
Physical fitness is important because you will hike over rugged terrain at high elevations.
What to Expect During Your Drop Camp Hunt
Arrival and Setup
Pack animals will transport you to the camp location. The camps will be set up and supplied so you can head out and get oriented with the area.
Daily Hunting Routine
Each day starts early with scouting, glassing and call for elk. Archery hunting requires patience and careful movement to get within effective shooting range, often less than 40 yards.
Camp Life
Evenings are spent around the campfire sharing stories, preparing meals, and planning the next day’s hunt. The remote setting offers a chance to disconnect and enjoy nature’s quiet.
Harvest and Processing
If you successfully harvest an elk, you are expected to field dress, quarter and pack meat to camp or to a trail for the wrangler to come get the meat. They will take the meat out and get it to a cooler or the processor especially in the warmer seasons.
Tips for a Successful Drop Camp Archery Elk Hunt
Practice Your Archery Skills: Focus on accuracy at varying distances and shooting from different positions and at steep angles.
Train for Endurance: Hiking with a loaded pack requires stamina and strength.
Learn Elk Calls: Mastering bugles and cow calls can improve your chances of drawing elk closer.
Pack Light but Smart: Bring only essentials to avoid fatigue but ensure safety and comfort.
Stay Flexible: Weather and elk movement can change plans; adaptability is key.
Safety Considerations
Hunting in remote areas involves risks such as wildlife encounters, weather changes, and injuries. West Elk Outfitters prioritizes safety by:
Providing thorough gear lists before the hunt
Carrying first aid kits and emergency communication devices
Having experienced guides trained in general first aid and wilderness survival
Hunters should also inform family or friends of their itinerary and expected return.
Why Western Colorado Is Ideal for Archery Elk Hunting
Western Colorado offers diverse landscapes, including forests, alpine meadows, and rugged mountains. This variety supports healthy elk populations and provides challenging terrain for hunters. The region’s public and private lands offer ample opportunities for drop camp hunts that combine adventure with excellent hunting prospects.
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