Colorado Elk Hunting
Photo: Elk Hunting @MountianViewAdventures
That Moment You Finally Get Your Hands on Your Elk
All the miles. All the glassing. All the early mornings and cold, quiet hikes through the Colorado mountains… they all lead up to this. You finally found your bull — and now, you’re standing over him, hands on your elk for the very first time.
There’s nothing quite like it. That mix of pride, relief, and pure gratitude is something every hunter knows deep down. You feel the weight of the hunt — the challenge, the patience, the respect for the animal, and the land that made it all possible.
At Mountain View Adventures, we live for this exact moment. The one where it all comes together, where effort turns into achievement, and every second of the journey suddenly makes sense.
The Reward After the Challenge
Elk hunting in Colorado isn’t easy. It takes grit, focus, and a love for the chase. But that’s what makes this moment so powerful. When your hands touch that rack, it’s not just about the trophy — it’s about what it took to earn it.
The cold air, the steep climbs, the snow crunching under your boots — it all fades into one unforgettable feeling of accomplishment.
A Moment You’ll Never Forget
Every hunter remembers their first elk — and every one after. The photos, the handshakes, the shared excitement with your guide and buddies… it’s something you’ll talk about for years.
And when you hang that mount on your wall, you’ll be right back in that moment — standing in the Colorado mountains, hands on your elk, realizing you did it.
At Mountain View Adventures, we’re proud to help hunters experience that feeling. Because once you do, you’ll never be the same.
2025 Elk Hunting Season
Photo: Colorado Elk Hunting @MountianViewAdventures
Get Ready for Elk Hunting Season 2025!
There’s nothing quite like elk season in Colorado — and 2025 is right around the corner! The anticipation is already building here at Mountain View Adventures, and we can feel that familiar buzz in the air.
Our guides are out scouting, watching herds move across the mountains, and marking those familiar trails that lead to big opportunities. Each season brings new stories, new challenges, and new memories — and 2025 is shaping up to be one for the books.
Whether you’re chasing your first bull or coming back to take on the mountains again, there’s something special about stepping into the crisp Colorado air before sunrise, hearing bugles echo through the canyons, and knowing you’re part of something timeless.
It’s more than just hunting — it’s the experience. The people. The land. The challenge.
And when that first light breaks over the ridges, you’ll remember exactly why you came.
Elk season 2025 is coming fast — make sure you’re ready to make it your best one yet.
Book your hunt early, gear up, and let’s make memories that will last a lifetime.
Because at Mountain View Adventures, every season is more than a hunt… it’s a story waiting to be told.
Getting Your Elk Hide
Photo: Elk Hide @MountainViewAdventures
The Reward of the Hunt
There’s a moment every hunter remembers — the instant after taking down your first elk, when you approach the animal and begin the process of harvesting it. One of the most memorable parts of that experience is getting the hide. It’s more than just a step in processing your harvest — it’s a connection to the animal, the land, and the entire hunt.
A Moment of Respect and Reflection
Walking up to your elk after the shot is humbling. The adrenaline of the hunt slowly settles, leaving space for gratitude. Handling the hide is a tangible way to honor the animal and acknowledge the effort it took to reach this point. It’s a reminder of the patience, preparation, and respect required in every great hunt.
Whether you plan to mount your bull for a European mount or simply keep the hide as a lasting memento, this step connects you to the wilderness and the tradition of hunting in a way nothing else can.
Learning the Process
At Mountain View Adventures, we guide hunters through every part of the harvest — including how to properly handle and care for the hide. Our experienced guides teach techniques that ensure the hide is preserved perfectly for tanning or mounting.
This is more than just a skill — it’s part of the story of your hunt. Every cut, every careful movement, reflects the effort, respect, and pride of harvesting your own elk.
A Keepsake That Lasts a Lifetime
The hide becomes more than material — it becomes a memory. Every time you look at it, you’ll recall the crisp mountain air, the sound of bugles echoing through the timber, and the thrill of your first bull. It’s a tangible reminder of the adventure, challenge, and accomplishment of your hunt with Mountain View Adventures.
Harvesting your hide is one of those moments that makes you pause and reflect on the journey — from scouting and tracking to taking the shot and backpacking your trophy. It’s a celebration of the hunt and everything that comes with it.
Preserve the Memory
Every elk taken with Mountain View Adventures offers more than meat or antlers. The hide, properly prepared, keeps the story of your hunt alive for years to come. It’s a piece of Colorado’s wilderness you get to take home, a lasting memory of a first bull and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Book your next elk hunt today and experience the full circle of the hunt — from the thrill of the chase to the satisfaction of harvesting and preserving your first elk hide.
The Key to Your Elk Hunt Victory
Photo: Hunting For Elk @MountainViewAdventures
Scouting for Success
Every successful elk hunt starts long before the first shot is fired. It begins with scouting — understanding the land, the elk’s patterns, and the perfect spot to make your move. At Mountain View Adventures, our guides take scouting seriously because we know that preparation is everything when it comes to turning your hunt into a victory.
The Art of Scouting
Scouting isn’t just walking through the mountains — it’s reading the terrain, noticing subtle signs, and learning the habits of the elk. Tracks in the snow, fresh rubs on trees, and the sound of distant bugles all tell a story. Our experienced guides know exactly what to look for, giving you a significant advantage once the hunt begins.
Every ridge climbed, every valley surveyed, and every observation made during scouting sets the stage for success. The goal isn’t just to find elk — it’s to set you up for the hunt of a lifetime.
Guided Expertise Makes the Difference
Mountain View Adventures hunters benefit from years of local knowledge. Our guides scout with purpose, ensuring that every day in the field counts. They know where bulls are likely to be feeding, how to approach them without spooking the herd, and which vantage points provide the best opportunity for a shot.
Scouting with a guide isn’t just about location — it’s about strategy. Knowing the lay of the land, the travel corridors elk use, and the rut patterns gives you the edge you need to experience a successful hunt.
The Reward of Preparation
There’s nothing more satisfying than watching a well-planned hunt unfold. When you’ve scouted with care, every step of the hunt feels intentional. You move with confidence, make calculated decisions, and know that the opportunity in front of you is the result of preparation and expertise.
And when that moment comes — spotting your bull, drawing your bow, or taking the perfect shot — you’ll realize how much the scouting paid off. It’s the difference between a memorable hunt and a truly legendary experience.
Make Your Hunt a Victory
At Mountain View Adventures, we believe that scouting is the foundation of every successful elk hunt. By combining local knowledge, expert guidance, and careful preparation, we set our hunters up for the thrill of the chase and the ultimate reward: a successful harvest, a trophy to remember, and a story to tell for a lifetime.
Book your elk hunt today and experience the advantage of a guided scout — because every great hunt begins long before the first bugle.
Elk Hunting in Colorado
Photo: Best Elk Hunting In Colorado @MountainViewAdventures
There’s nothing quite like elk hunting in Colorado. The moment you step out into the cool mountain air, you can feel it — that rush of excitement that comes from being deep in the wilderness, surrounded by some of the most breathtaking views and the wildest elk country in the nation. Every hunter dreams of the day they get to chase a bull through the Rockies, and at Mountain View Adventures, that dream becomes reality.
A True Colorado Experience
Elk hunting in Colorado isn’t just a hunt — it’s an adventure. From sunrise over the mountain peaks to the sound of bugles echoing through the valleys, every moment feels alive. The terrain can be challenging, but that’s what makes the experience so rewarding. Every ridge you climb and every mile you cover brings you closer to that unforgettable moment when you finally spot your bull.
At Mountain View Adventures, we know these mountains like the back of our hand. With access to over 350,000 acres of BLM land, our hunters get to explore some of the best elk habitat in Colorado. Whether you prefer a guided or semi-guided hunt, we’ll make sure your time in the field is as exciting and successful as possible.
The Thrill of the Chase
There’s something special about hearing that first bugle of the morning — it’s a sound that gets your heart racing. You’ll move quietly through the timber, glassing the ridges and calling in hopes of catching a glimpse of a bull moving through the trees. When it finally happens, and that elk steps into view, it’s a moment every hunter lives for.
At Mountain View Adventures, we offer both archery and rifle elk hunts to fit your hunting style. Archery hunters can experience the intensity of close-range encounters during the rut, while rifle hunters can enjoy the challenge of tracking bulls through crisp autumn mornings. No matter how you choose to hunt, the experience will leave you wanting to come back year after year.
More Than Just a Hunt
The best part of elk hunting in Colorado isn’t just the harvest — it’s everything that comes with it. It’s the friendships made around the fire, the laughter in the dining hall, and the stories that never seem to get old. Once you’ve hunted with Mountain View Adventures, you’re not just a guest — you’re family.
Every hunter leaves with memories that last a lifetime. And whether you take home a European mount, a full head mount, or just the photos and stories, one thing is certain: you’ll always remember your time in the mountains chasing elk with us.
Ready to start your adventure?
Book your Colorado elk hunt today with Mountain View Adventures — where the mountains call, and the hunt begins.
Reliving the Hunt
Hanging Your European Mount at Home
For hunters, few moments are as rewarding as bringing home the antlers from a trophy bull elk and proudly displaying them as a European mount. It’s not just a decoration — it’s a symbol of perseverance, skill, and the unforgettable journey through Colorado’s wilderness.
At Mountain View Adventures, we’ve seen hunters experience pure joy, pride, and nostalgia when they finally see their mount displayed in their home.
The Dream Becomes Reality
Every elk hunt begins with anticipation: scouting, hiking, and bugle calls echoing through the mountains. After the shot, tracking, and recovery, you finally have your trophy bull.
The European mount captures the majesty of the bull’s antlers and the elegance of its head and neck in a clean, artistic form. Unlike a full-body mount, it emphasizes the antlers — the crowning achievement of a hunter’s quest.
When you finally see it on your wall, it’s more than a reminder of the hunt — it’s a story frozen in time.
The Emotion of Hanging Your Mount
The moment you hang your mount, emotions run deep:
Pride: Years of preparation and dedication are immortalized in antlers that reflect your skill and patience.
Nostalgia: Memories of the trek, the bugle calls, and the excitement of the shot come rushing back.
Connection: The mount serves as a tangible link to the mountains, the wildlife, and the experience you lived.
Many hunters describe it as a full-circle moment — from scouting the herd to seeing the mount every day, the memory of the hunt is always present.
Displaying Your Trophy
Creating a display that honors your bull is part of the fun. Consider:
Placement: Living rooms, offices, or dens are perfect spots to admire your trophy.
Lighting: Proper lighting highlights the size, symmetry, and detail of the antlers.
Storytelling: Some hunters include photos, maps, or plaques with dates to capture the full story.
A European mount isn’t just art — it’s a conversation starter, a memory keeper, and a personal achievement.
Why Hunters Cherish This Tradition
Displaying a European mount isn’t about bragging — it’s about honoring the hunt and the animal. It’s a way to:
Relive the thrill of the hunt every day
Share the story with family and friends
Inspire others to pursue their own outdoor adventures
For many, the mount becomes a legacy piece, something that can be passed down or remembered for generations.
Book Your Trophy Hunt
If you dream of that moment — tracking a bull, taking the shot, and eventually hanging your European mount at home — Mountain View Adventures is here to make it happen. With access to prime Colorado elk country and expert guides, we’ll help you create memories that last a lifetime.
Book your elk hunt today and take the first step toward your ultimate trophy bull experience!
How to Spot Trophy Bulls During the Elk Rut in Colorado
Photo: Women Hunt Elk @MountianViewAdventures
For many hunters, the ultimate goal of elk hunting is spotting and harvesting a trophy bull. During the rut, Colorado’s mountains are alive with activity — bugling bulls, moving herds, and dramatic sparring matches. Knowing how to identify a trophy bull can make the difference between a successful hunt and just another day in the mountains.
At Mountain View Adventures, we help hunters recognize the signs of a trophy bull and position themselves for the best chances of success.
What Makes a Bull a Trophy?
Trophy bulls are generally defined by their antler size, symmetry, and age. Key characteristics include:
Large, fully developed antlers with multiple tines
Massive main beams and wide spreads
Thick necks and muscular bodies, often indicating a mature bull
While every hunter’s definition of a trophy may vary, these physical traits usually signal a bull that is high on most hunters’ bucket lists.
Where to Find Trophy Bulls
During the rut, bulls are on the move, making strategic spotting essential. Look for:
Open Ridges and Meadows: Trophy bulls are often visible in higher, open areas as they move between feeding and bedding sites.
Late-Day Feeding Areas: Bulls may descend to lower elevations to feed during the afternoon.
Bulls in Sparring Groups: Mature bulls often challenge each other for dominance, providing prime spotting opportunities.
Guides at Mountain View Adventures use years of experience to place hunters in areas where trophy bulls are most likely to be.
Behavioral Clues to Identify Trophy Bulls
Bugling Patterns: Large bulls are typically the most vocal, asserting dominance over rivals.
Harem Size: Bulls with multiple cows nearby are often the strongest and most mature.
Movement and Confidence: Trophy bulls often move with purpose, patrolling their territory during peak rut times.
By observing these behaviors, hunters can distinguish trophy bulls from younger, smaller males.
Tips for Spotting Trophy Bulls
Glassing Techniques: Use binoculars or spotting scopes to scan ridges and valleys for large silhouettes.
Pay Attention to Light: Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting to spot antlers against the terrain.
Move Slowly and Quietly: Avoid spooking bulls by keeping a low profile while moving through cover.
Listen Closely: Bugles, grunts, and sparring sounds can pinpoint a bull’s location.
Take Notes: Keep a log of sightings, herd compositions, and locations for future hunts.
Why Guided Hunts Increase Your Chances
Mountain View Adventures offers expert guidance during the rut to ensure hunters are in the right place at the right time. Our guides:
Know the local herds and trophy bulls’ patterns
Help with spotting and identifying mature bulls
Ensure safety and effective hunting strategies
Even for experienced hunters, guidance in Colorado’s vast elk country can dramatically increase success.
The Reward
There’s nothing like the excitement of spotting a trophy bull during the rut — the anticipation, the strategy, and the unforgettable moment of recognition. Successfully harvesting a bull is the culmination of preparation, patience, and skill. And if you choose to preserve the antlers or a full head mount, it becomes a story you’ll tell for a lifetime.
Book Your Trophy Bull Hunt
If harvesting a trophy bull is your goal, there’s no better place to hunt than Colorado during the rut. Mountain View Adventures provides access to prime elk country, experienced guides, and all the support you need to make your dream hunt a reality.
Book your elk hunt today and get ready to spot the bull of a lifetime!
Experiencing the Elk Rut in Colorado
Photo: Colorado Elk Hunting @MountainViewAdventures
A Hunter’s Ultimate Adventure
If there’s one time of year that elk hunters dream about, it’s the rut. In Colorado, the elk rut is an exhilarating period when bulls are actively bugling, sparring, and moving throughout the mountains in search of cows. For hunters, this is a prime opportunity to witness incredible wildlife behavior and possibly tag a trophy bull.
At Mountain View Adventures, we guide hunters through the rut every season, ensuring they experience the intensity, beauty, and excitement of Colorado elk country.
What Is the Elk Rut?
The elk rut is the mating season, typically occurring from late September through early October. During this time, bull elk leave their usual patterns to compete for cows, making them more visible and vocal.
Key behaviors include:
Bugling: Loud vocal calls bulls use to attract cows and warn rivals.
Sparring: Bulls test their strength against rivals in dramatic displays.
Increased Movement: Bulls travel more during the rut, often moving into open valleys, ridges, and meadows.
These behaviors make the rut the most active and thrilling time to hunt elk.
Why Hunting During the Rut Is Special
Higher Visibility: Bulls are less predictable and more mobile, increasing the chance of spotting them.
Auditory Clues: Bugling helps hunters locate bulls even across long distances.
Exciting Encounters: Witnessing sparring and herd dynamics is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Hunting during the rut isn’t just about filling your tag — it’s about experiencing wildlife like never before.
When to Hunt
Timing is everything. Colorado’s rut varies by elevation and weather conditions, but the peak activity generally occurs in early October. Hunters planning a trip during this window often experience the most vocal bulls and the highest probability of success.
Mountain View Adventures’ experienced guides monitor local herds, ensuring hunters are in the right place at the right time.
Tips for a Successful Rut Hunt
Scout Ahead: Look for fresh tracks, droppings, and bedding areas.
Listen Carefully: Bugles can give away a bull’s location from miles away.
Be Patient and Stealthy: Bulls are active, but they can still be cautious. Move slowly and use cover.
Use Calls Wisely: Proper elk calls can lure curious bulls closer without spooking them.
Dress Appropriately: Layered clothing is key for early mornings and cooler mountain temperatures.
Guided vs. Semi-Guided Rut Hunts
Mountain View Adventures offers fully guided and semi-guided hunts. Our guides provide:
Expert knowledge of rut timing and elk behavior
Access to prime hunting terrain
Safety guidance in challenging mountain terrain
For first-timers or those seeking a trophy bull during the rut, guided hunts maximize success and create unforgettable memories.
Why the Rut Is Unforgettable
The sights and sounds of the rut — bugling bulls echoing across valleys, sparring matches, and herds moving through the timber — are experiences that stay with hunters forever. Every rut hunt is an adventure that combines skill, patience, and the thrill of being in the wild during one of nature’s most dramatic events.
Book Your Colorado Rut Hunt
If you want to experience the intensity and excitement of the elk rut, now is the time to plan your trip. Mountain View Adventures provides access to over 350,000 acres of elk country, expert guidance, and the experience needed to make your rut hunt unforgettable.
Book your hunt today and witness the Colorado elk rut for yourself — the adventure of a lifetime awaits!