Smith Rancho
Colorado Elk Hunting · Sept 1 – Nov 29

Hundreds of Elk, Every Day

Thousands of elk inhabit our ranch each fall. With a 90-day season and guaranteed licenses, you hunt on your terms across 62,000 private acres in the heart of the Rockies.

Bull elk taken at Smith Rancho
90Hunting days
98%Success rate
5–6 ptAverage bull
100%Opportunity
ZeroApplications needed
The Hunt

You'll see more elk than you ever have before

During the fall, thousands of elk inhabit our ranch. You can expect to see hundreds of elk each day during your hunt. Northwest Colorado's elk population grows nearly every year, and Smith Rancho sits in the middle of some of the best country in the state.

The average bull taken here is a strong 5-point, with several 6-points harvested every season. Shots typically range from 50 to 300 yards. As colder temperatures arrive in late October, the elk move more and group up — and you'll see larger herds spilling out of the timber.

Over the years we've maintained a success rate around 98%, with 100% opportunity to harvest an elk. Because we're part of Big Gulch Ranching for Wildlife, your license is guaranteed — no draw, no application, no waiting.

1970
Guiding since
Rut · Sept 1 – Oct 15

When the bulls are bugling

September and early October is when elk hunting gets electric. During the rut, the bulls are bugling and our guides call them in to close range. There's nothing like hearing a herd bull answer a call and come crashing through the timber toward you.

Our guides know this country the way Brad Smith has known it since 1970. They read the wind, work the elk, and put you in position. You bring the patience — we handle the rest.

Late Season · Oct 16 – Nov 29

Cold temps, big herds

As the weather turns in late October and November, elk behavior shifts. They leave the heavy timber and travel in large herds across open terrain — giving you long shooting lanes and unforgettable Rocky Mountain scenery.

For many of our returning hunters, the late season becomes their favorite. With private access to 62,000 acres and a full 90-day window, you can hunt the conditions that suit your style.

Fully Outfitted

Everything's handled

01

Lodging

Comfortable accommodations at the ranch headquarters. You arrive the evening before your hunt begins — no long drives to camp each morning.

02

All Meals

Home-cooked meals throughout your stay. We keep hunters well-fed and fueled for long days on the mountain.

03

Guaranteed License

Your elk license comes through the Ranching for Wildlife program. No draw, no application, no waiting — it's guaranteed.

04

Expert Guiding

Two hunters per guide. Every guide is intimately familiar with the ranch and has years of experience putting hunters on elk.

05

Transportation

Travel to and from the hunting areas is provided. No need to navigate 62,000 acres on your own.

06

Game Care

Proper field dressing and care of your animal after the harvest, so your meat and cape make it home in top condition.

Season Overview

Your hunting window

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Rut (Sept 1 – Oct 15)
Post-Rut (Oct 16 – Nov 29)
Hunt Details

What to expect

SeasonSept 1 – Nov 29
Hunt Length3 days (arrive evening prior)
Camp Size5–6 hunters maximum
Guide Ratio2 hunters per guide
Shot Range50 to 300 yards
Average Bull5-point, with 6-points each season
Combo HuntsElk / Deer & Elk / Antelope
Location10 mi N of Hayden · 22 mi W of Steamboat

Ready to book your elk hunt?

Spots fill fast and the season doesn't wait. Call Brad directly to check availability and reserve your dates.

602.369.3522