Scouting for Elk in the Mountains of Colorado
Every successful elk hunt starts long before opening day. Whether you’re chasing bulls with a bow in September or glassing ridges during rifle season, scouting is the key to finding elk in the rugged Colorado mountains. Knowing where they feed, bed, and travel can make the difference between a long week of hiking and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
At Mountain View Adventures, located in Rangely, Colorado, we spend countless hours scouting elk across more than 350,000 acres of BLM land. Here’s what every hunter should know about finding elk in the Rockies.
Understanding Elk Habitat
Elk are constantly on the move, following food, water, and safety. In the early season, they tend to stay high — often above 9,000 feet — where cool temperatures and green feed keep them comfortable. As snow starts to fall, they move down into lower elevations to find easier food sources and milder weather.
When scouting, look for:
Fresh tracks and droppings
Rubs and wallows (especially during rut)
South-facing slopes for morning bedding
North-facing timber for shade during mid-day heat
These signs often lead you right into their core areas.
Timing Your Scouting
The best time to scout is a few weeks before your hunt. In August and early September, bulls are still in bachelor groups, feeding heavily and growing antlers. As the rut begins, their behavior changes quickly — cows become the focus, and bulls move frequently.
If you can, spend time glassing at sunrise and sunset. Elk are most active during these hours, and you’ll be able to pattern their movement without disturbing them.
Using Technology to Your Advantage
Modern scouting tools can make a big difference. Apps like OnX Hunt, BaseMap, and Google Earth help you study terrain, mark waypoints, and identify potential glassing spots long before you set foot on the mountain.
At Mountain View Adventures, our guides combine years of local knowledge with these tools to stay one step ahead of elk movement each season. Even experienced hunters are amazed by how much difference solid preseason scouting makes.
Reading the Land
The Colorado mountains are diverse — steep timbered ridges, open sage flats, and dark canyons all hold elk at different times of year. Learning to read these landscapes is part of the adventure.
Elk often bed in thick cover during the day, then travel to open meadows or agricultural fields to feed at night. Look for well-worn trails between these two areas. If you find tracks of multiple sizes — cows, calves, and bulls — you’re likely in the right place.
Scouting with Mountain View Adventures
For hunters who don’t live nearby, scouting can be tough. That’s where Mountain View Adventures comes in. Our guides spend the entire year learning elk patterns, checking trail cameras, and exploring new areas across our vast range of hunting land.
Whether you’re coming for a guided or semi-guided elk hunt, you’ll benefit from all that local knowledge — meaning less time searching and more time hunting.
The Reward of Doing It Right
There’s nothing quite like spotting elk where you planned for them to be. When your hard work and scouting pay off, every step up the mountain feels worth it. Scouting builds confidence, teaches patience, and gives you a deeper understanding of the animals you’re pursuing.
When you finally see that bull step out, you’ll know exactly why you put in the effort.
Ready to put your boots on the mountain? Book your Colorado elk hunt with Mountain View Adventures and let our experienced guides show you what a well-scouted hunt really feels like.
Hunting Elk for Meat
Why It’s One of the Healthiest and Most Rewarding Hunts
For many hunters, chasing elk in the mountains of Colorado isn’t just about the thrill of the hunt — it’s about bringing home some of the best wild game meat on the planet. Elk meat is lean, healthy, and delicious, making elk hunting one of the most rewarding experiences both in the field and at the dinner table.
Why Elk Meat Is So Healthy
Elk meat is one of the leanest red meats you can eat. It’s naturally high in protein, rich in vitamins and minerals, and low in fat and cholesterol. Unlike store-bought beef, elk roam wild and feed on natural grasses, resulting in meat that’s organic, hormone-free, and nutrient-dense.
A few nutritional highlights of elk meat include:
High Protein: About 25 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving.
Low Fat: Roughly one-third the fat of beef.
Iron and Zinc: Excellent for energy, immunity, and muscle recovery.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Promotes heart health and reduces inflammation.
For hunters who care about what they eat, elk meat is the perfect clean, natural protein source.
The Reward of Harvesting Your Own Meat
Hunting your own meat creates a deep sense of appreciation and respect for the animal and the land. Every cut of meat tells a story — the crisp mountain mornings, the long hikes, and the moment your hard work paid off. Knowing exactly where your food comes from makes every meal meaningful.
At Mountain View Adventures, hunters often fill their freezers for the entire year. An adult bull elk can yield over 200 pounds of boneless meat, providing months of clean, sustainable meals for your family.
Best Seasons for Meat Hunts
While trophy hunts are popular, many hunters prefer to focus on meat hunts — typically during the later rifle seasons when elk are herding up and easier to locate. Colorado’s generous tag system and strong elk population make it one of the best places in the country for a successful meat hunt.
Tips for Taking Care of Your Elk Meat
Once you’ve harvested your elk, proper care is key to preserving meat quality.
Cool it quickly: Get the meat cooled down as soon as possible.
Keep it clean: Avoid getting hair or dirt on your meat when field dressing.
Use game bags: Keep quarters covered to protect from flies and debris.
Plan for transport: Bring coolers, ice, and game bags to ensure it stays fresh.
At Mountain View Adventures, we help hunters handle their harvest properly and can guide you on the best ways to prepare, store, and transport your meat home.
Experience the Hunt — and the Reward
Hunting elk for meat is more than just a hunt — it’s a sustainable, meaningful lifestyle. The meat you bring home is clean, ethical, and earned. When you sit down to a meal of elk steaks or burgers, you’ll remember every step of the journey that got it there.
Ready to experience the hunt of a lifetime? Book your elk hunt with Mountain View Adventures and fill your freezer with the best wild game meat in Colorado.
Elk Hunting in 2024: What Hunters Need to Know for an Unforgettable Season
As the 2024 elk hunting season approaches, hunters across Colorado are preparing for one of the most exciting times of the year. With over 350,000 acres of prime elk country at Mountain View Adventures, this year promises incredible opportunities for both seasoned hunters and first-timers alike.
What’s New in 2024?
Every hunting season brings new challenges and opportunities. For 2024:
Updated Regulations: Always check the latest Colorado Parks & Wildlife rules regarding tags, season dates, and hunting zones to ensure a legal and safe hunt.
Improved Gear: From advanced optics to new elk calls, hunters have more tools than ever to increase their success. Our guides can help you choose the right equipment for the terrain and your hunting style.
Peak Elk Movement: 2024’s mild winters have led to some shifts in elk migration patterns. Knowing these changes can give you a tactical advantage in finding herds early in the season.
Tips for a Successful 2024 Hunt
Scout Early: Before your hunt, spend time learning the lay of the land. Guided hunts with Mountain View Adventures provide expert scouting to save time and improve your odds.
Perfect Your Calls: Elk calls are essential for luring bulls. Practicing now can make all the difference when you’re out in the field.
Plan for Weather: Colorado weather is unpredictable. Layered clothing, rain gear, and hydration are essential for a safe and comfortable hunt.
Stay Patient: Elk hunting requires persistence. Even with the best strategy, patience is key. Trust your guide and follow their advice.
Why Hunt with Mountain View Adventures in 2024?
Our team brings over 25 years of experience to each hunt, ensuring a safe, exciting, and successful adventure. From cozy cabins with meals provided to guided access across private and public lands, we make elk hunting in 2024 an unforgettable experience.
Whether it’s your first hunt or you’re returning for another season, 2024 is the year to make memories in Colorado’s majestic wilderness. Book your guided or semi-guided hunt today and experience the thrill of elk hunting like never before.
The Top 5 Tips for a Successful Colorado Elk Hunt
Elk hunting in Colorado is an experience unlike any other. The thrill of spotting a bull elk in the wild, the challenge of navigating rugged terrain, and the satisfaction of a successful hunt are memories that last a lifetime. At Mountain View Adventures, we’ve guided hunters for over 25 years, and we’ve seen what makes a hunt truly successful. Here are our top five tips to help you get the most out of your elk hunting adventure.
1. Know Your Terrain
Colorado’s elk country is vast and varied, from high mountain ridges to dense forests. Understanding the terrain is key. Our guided hunts give you an advantage by taking you directly to the areas where elk are most active, saving you hours of scouting and giving you the best chance of success.
2. Master Your Calls
Elk calls can make all the difference. From bugles to cow calls, using the right sound at the right time can draw elk within range. Our guides provide tips and demonstrations to help hunters of all skill levels use calls effectively.
3. Hunt During Peak Activity Times
Elk are most active at dawn and dusk. Planning your hunt around these times increases your chances of spotting elk and getting a clear shot. Staying in cabins near prime hunting grounds gives you more flexibility to hunt during these peak periods.
4. Be Prepared for the Elements
Colorado weather can change quickly. Dressing in layers, carrying rain gear, and staying hydrated are essential. Our accommodations ensure you have a comfortable base to rest, refuel, and prepare for the next day in the field.
5. Patience and Persistence Pay Off
Elk hunting requires patience. Sometimes it takes hours—or even days—to find the right herd. Trust your guide, follow their advice, and stay persistent. The reward is worth every effort when you finally encounter a bull elk in its natural habitat.
Why Hunt with Mountain View Adventures?
With access to 350,000 acres of private and public land, experienced guides, and cozy cabins with meals provided, we make every elk hunting trip safe, comfortable, and memorable. Whether you’re a first-time hunter or a seasoned veteran, our team is dedicated to helping you have the best hunt possible.
Ready to experience Colorado elk hunting at its finest? Book your adventure with Mountain View Adventures and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Discover the Ultimate Elk Hunting Experience with Mountain View Adventures
For hunters seeking the thrill of Colorado elk hunting, Mountain View Adventures offers an unparalleled experience. Nestled in the heart of Colorado’s vast wilderness, our outfitting service provides both guided and semi-guided hunts across 350,000 acres of prime elk country, ensuring that every trip is memorable and rewarding.
Guided Hunts Tailored to You
Whether you prefer archery, rifle, or muzzleloader hunting, our team has the expertise to make your hunt successful. Guided hunts include transportation to and from hunting areas, personalized advice, and on-the-ground support from seasoned professionals with over 25 years of experience. For those who enjoy a more independent adventure, our semi-guided hunts allow you to explore with confidence while still benefiting from our knowledge of the land and elk patterns.
Comfortable Accommodations Close to the Action
Our cabins offer modern comforts without compromising your wilderness experience. With showers, full restrooms, and meals provided, you can focus on your hunt while enjoying cozy accommodations. Some hunting areas are right outside our cabins, giving you the rare opportunity to maximize your time in the field.
Access to Extensive Hunting Land
With access to hundreds of thousands of acres of both private and public land, Mountain View Adventures places you in the heart of elk migration routes. This prime access translates to higher chances of spotting elk and having a truly fulfilling hunting experience.
Why Choose Mountain View Adventures?
Over 25 years of hunting expertise
Variety of hunting styles: archery, rifle, and muzzleloader
Guided and semi-guided options to fit your skill level
Comfortable cabins with full amenities
Access to 350,000 acres of prime elk country
Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or looking to make your first elk hunt unforgettable, Mountain View Adventures offers the perfect balance of adventure, comfort, and success. Book your Colorado elk hunting trip today and experience the thrill of the hunt in some of the most scenic landscapes in the country.