Tent set up for third season elk in CO

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Oct 19, 2025
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Let me preface this by saying I’m a complete noob when it comes to hunting out west and at elevation. I’m considering hunting third season elk in Colorado this year and I’m confused on shelter set ups.

Are hot tents pretty much the norm? If i do bring a hot tent, set up camp, and day hunt, do you bring an emergency shelter when out day hunting?

Or should I just bring an ultralight trekking pole tent and carry it with me at all times to be more mobile/set up camp wherever I happen to be?
 
Let me preface this by saying I’m a complete noob when it comes to hunting out west and at elevation. I’m considering hunting third season elk in Colorado this year and I’m confused on shelter set ups.

Are hot tents pretty much the norm? If i do bring a hot tent, set up camp, and day hunt, do you bring an emergency shelter when out day hunting?

Or should I just bring an ultralight trekking pole tent and carry it with me at all times to be more mobile/set up camp wherever I happen to be?
I think most run a tent with the ability to run a stove and then typically take a tarp in the day pack like a SO DST in case of emergencies or if bad weather comes on. Either way you’d want to always keep your poles on your to help set up the tarp and honestly just a good idea to run them.
 
I think most run a tent with the ability to run a stove and then typically take a tarp in the day pack like a SO DST in case of emergencies or if bad weather comes on. Either way you’d want to always keep your poles on your to help set up the tarp and honestly just a good idea to run them.
Yeah I saw a lot of people recommending that. So would you bring your sleeping bag/pad with you every day? And maybe an emergency bivy?
 
3rd season elk season depending on elevation and location can mean expect snow and cold weather. Most typical tent is outfitter type of tent with wood stove. Smaller tents should be four season tents and are doable just not as comfortable. Yes your pack should contain an emergency bivy and or shelter to survive. The clothing you wear is important for your survival (no cotton etc). In your pack would be a quality puffy coat, pants, mittens and beanie at minimum. Good boots for that season with snow and cold are a good idea. I like pac boots that time of year. Good luck have fun and stay dry.
 
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