CO unit 521

[Sapper]

Are any of you familiar with this unit? I'm looking for a new location for archery elk OTC unit for next yr. I've narrowed it down to a few. The info I'm looking for is the terrain, water availability, etc. Can u get back in away from jeep trails? We're going to be backpacking and it's difficult studying google earth and determining what is a dirt rd, jeep trail, old fire path, etc. That really threw me for a loop last yr. I don't need to know where the elk are (maybe where they're not!!) but mostly where I can drive to, get out and walk without running into a vehicle or an atv a few hrs into my journey. Or days. Also looking at 74 if anyone has any intel. Much appreciated! Thanks!!

 

[bz_711]

No experience in those units, but your frustrations are the #1 reason I stick to Wilderness areas that do not allow motorized vehicles.

 

[Sapper]

No experience in those units, but your frustrations are the #1 reason I stick to Wilderness areas that do not allow motorized vehicles.

I've been seriously considering that as well. If I didn't live 2000mi away, scouting it out on foot would be my first option!

 

[bonecrusher1]

Hey I'm planning on getting in there next summer cause I wanna hunt it as well. I may make it out the this Sept yet just winging it. If I get into it I'll let you know what its looking like. I plan on focusing on the ragged wilderness in there.

 

[lcxctf2000]

Bonecrusher1 - did you get the chance to check out the Raggeds this past September? 521 and Raggeds are my #1 for 2015 right now. Have a friend that lives in Paonia that doesn't hunt but knows the area. Says it's rugged as hell. Elk there but you have to work to find them. Sounds great to me! Would be interested in hearing your take if you got out.

I may make it out for a scout trip this summer. Slim chance, but my employer is based in Golden and I might plan a "work" trip and then hit the Raggeds for a weekend with my buddy to get at least a bit of an idea on where to start rather than coming blind on first rifle.

 

[fulldraw1972]

Sapper, if your thinking wilderness hunt. I can help you out in 54. Two years ago I went out there unseen and found elk right away. Its a steep unit. There are a couple of areas that get hit hard.

 

[explorerss]

I've hunted unit 521 and the raggeds. We went 3 for 4 on bulls our first year out with rifle. Elk are there but can be tricky to find. Decent amount of scrub oak as well. I camped at the erickson springs campground. Gets a decent amount of pressure but once you get in the wilderness area pressure backs off.

 

[lcxctf2000]

explorerss - dropping you a PM. Hoping we can connect on 521 as this will be our first time out and the Raggeds are our intended destination.

Anybody else with experience in that area would be great. Specifically looking for info on:

1. knowledge of outfitters that work in the area so we can call them and hopefully not end up on top of a big camp.
2. any knowledge of access from the Eastern border with GMU 55? Need to consider if it makes more sense (distance, ruggedness, etc.) to try that way or coming in from the "normal" access points.


I am sure there will be more. Appreciate any help.

 

[jarredelectric]

Hate to revive an old thread, but I am about to apply to 521 for a first rifle season. I was looking at the mesa and the raggeds. Any advice on those areas? Thanks.

 

[jeffdvorak]

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