Colorado Elk Hunting
Plan your Colorado elk hunt with season dates, license options, and hunting opportunities organized by game management unit. Browse available private-land hunts and book access directly from landowners.
Last updated by Aricin Rotarius
Find Hunts by Unit
Browse private-land elk hunts across Colorado, organized by game management unit, and book directly with landowners.
Colorado Elk Seasons
These dates represent the “general” season dates. Check the individual hunting unit regulations for the most accurate season dates and regulations.
Plains
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Rifle
Archery
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Muzzleloader
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First Rifle
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Rifle
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Second Rifle
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Third Rifle
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Fourth Rifle
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Colorado Elk Licenses
Resident Licenses
| License | Availability | Eligibility | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elk License | — | Ages 18–63 | $70.40 |
| Elk License | — | Ages 12–17; Youth hunters | $20.30 |
Nonresident Licenses
| License | Availability | Eligibility | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elk bull/fishing combo | — | — | $845.16 |
Fishing portion of nonresident big game/fishing combo licenses is good through March 31, 2027. | |||
| Elk cow/fishing combo | — | — | $845.16 |
Fishing portion of nonresident big game/fishing combo licenses is good through March 31, 2027. | |||
| Elk either-sex/fishing combo | — | — | $845.16 |
Fishing portion of nonresident big game/fishing combo licenses is good through March 31, 2027. | |||
| Elk youth/fishing combo | — | Ages 12–17; Youth hunters | $130.07 |
Fishing portion of nonresident big game/fishing combo licenses is good through March 31, 2027. | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Colorado’s approximate 2026 elk season calendar runs from September 1, 2026, through January 31, 2027, depending on the hunt and method. Archery is September 2–30, muzzleloader is September 12–20, and the main rifle seasons are October 14–18, October 24–November 1, November 7–15, and November 18–22. Plains rifle opportunities run from September 1 through January 31. Check the applicable license and unit regulations for exact dates and requirements.
Yes. Nonresidents can hunt elk in Colorado with over-the-counter Elk License options, including the Elk Plains License. Some over-the-counter Elk Licenses go on sale August 4, 2026, but availability and hunt details vary by license and unit.
Yes. Colorado offers over-the-counter Elk Licenses for residents and nonresidents, including Elk Plains License options. Some licenses go on sale August 4, 2026, while exact availability depends on the hunt and unit.
See the latest Field Notes from properties offering elk hunts in Colorado.
