Looking for help with first DIY archery hunt west-central CO

[Midwestails]

Hello to all fellow hunters. I'm new to posting here but I have learned a ton from the forums over the few years being a member. For that I am grateful.

I drew a non resident either sex archery elk tag in west-central Colorado. My hunting partner lives nearby in Vail but has a newborn so I am not going to rely on having a solid partner the entire hunt. I plan to backpack hunt and be as mobile as possible. I already have extensive gear for that type of hunting but have never mixed both backpacking and hunting for several days at a time. I would try to do 3 different 3 day hunts depending on my level of success I may switch units between hunts.

We hunted an area last year in late October where we had some cows in rifle range but only had deer tags. I'm sure they wont be in the same spot late September a year later but that's all I have to go with for now. Other than a lot of ONX scouting I will only have one chance to get out there for a few days in mid august to get my boots on the ground.

Any suggestions or help in preparation for hunting this unit would be greatly appreciated. Feel free to pm me about anything you might be willing to share. Also, good luck hunting to all who will be out there this season!

Thanks,
Cameron

 

[nnmarcher]

You should remove the unit numbers from your post. https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/rokslide-forum-rules-etiquette.277022/

Otherwise, I like your idea of staying mobile. It sucks to hike in deep only to realize there aren't elk in the area. When you are there in August, look for fresh sign. I'd bet they'll be close by a few weeks later during archery season.

 

[Midwestails]

Okay I will do that. I wasn't sure if that was allowed or not thank you very much for that!

I know being mobile will be extremely helpful if I am not finding anything. In august fresh sign seems like it will be my main indicator short of seeing them. I have a few wallows and benches picked out to go check and camp near. Regardless it should be the hunt of a lifetime for me and I consider success getting within range (30-50yds) of an elk.