The Guide to Colorado Hunting Season Dates

Colorado plans the state's hunting seasons for big game through a five-year structure process. So, to prepare for your hunts starting in 2025, pay close attention to changes in the application process, draw odds, and more. One notable change is you'll no longer be able to get non-resident over-the-counter licenses available for the elk archery season in specific areas.

So, as you plan your 2025 hunting season in Colorado, let us help! We've got the information you need for bag limits, season dates, and more. We'll also help you find the best spots to hunt before you head out for your hunt. 

Why Do Hunters Hunt in Colorado?

Colorado is one of the best destinations for big game hunts, and it has the largest population of elk in North America. You'll find elk and mule deer worthy of trophy-class designation when hunting in this state.

You can also bring home a bear, antelope, moose, or bighorn sheep if you plan your season well. Or, if you prefer smaller game, hunt turkey in the spring or fall or try your hand at a grouse or ptarmigan hunt.

Where Should I Hunt?

Hunters have access to more than 23 million acres of public hunting land in Colorado, so there's plenty of terrain to explore and hunt. However, you'll want to do your research and be prepared for some tough treks across rugged mountains, valleys, desert lands, rivers, mesas, and canyons.

Within these acres of public land, HuntWise can help you target (and mark) the best hunting areas. So, when it's time for the big game seasons Colorado offers this year, you already know where to go for a more successful day in the field. 

When Can I Hunt?

If you're anxious to get out for an elk hunt this year, you're in the right place to learn about season dates and more.

Note that the information we provide is the latest we can find from Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW). As new information for the upcoming season becomes available, we'll update it here. However, Colorado makes things easier than many other states. The same dates typically apply annually unless otherwise noted by official sources.

We always recommend checking official resources for the latest season dates for big game and other animals you plan to hunt before finalizing plans.

For all big game hunts, be sure to double-check rules, hunt areas, and dates before finalizing your plans!

For additional details about specifics for the game animals listed above (and any animals not listed in this guide), visit the CPW website.

What Do I Need to Know About Colorado Hunting Regulations?

All hunters born after January 1, 1949, must pass a hunter education course before getting a Colorado hunting license. This is in addition to the specific license you need based on the game you plan to hunt.

Make sure you understand the terminology for different types of licenses (qualifying, limited, or over-the-counter) and which ones apply to the species you're after. Licensing also differs if you're a resident vs. a non-resident hunter. Colorado also offers exclusive hunting dates and license variations for youth, military, students, and hunters with disabilities.

For draw hunts, get familiar with the rules and how preference points work.

What are the Bag Limits for Colorado Hunting Seasons?

How many elk or marmots can you bring home this year? To comply with Colorado hunting regulations, make sure you know the bag limits for every animal you plan to hunt. 

For more information on bag limits, visit the CPW website. 

What Else Do I Need Before I Can Hunt?

You'll need the right gear! 

Make sure you have everything you need in the field to tag out, including a hunting knife, a good pair of binoculars, and a spotting scope for glassing big game.

Gearing up on a budget? From clothing (including layers) to optics and odor control, HuntWise hunting app users can save hundreds on gear from our partners.

HuntWise Helps You Tag Out When Hunting in Colorado

We hope the dates and details we shared in this guide help you plan a successful hunt for the Colorado hunting season dates this year! It's a lot of information to process, so be sure to consult official resources, too.

What else do you need for a successful hunt? The HuntWise hunting app! You'll find up-to-date information on hunting seasons, including links to the latest regulations and season and license information. With the app, you can also strategically plan your hunt before heading out to gain an advantage over other hunters. Our detailed maps and LiDAR map layer help you view the terrain with high resolution and accuracy. As you e-scout the terrain, you can place unique markers to identify landmarks, animal activity, pathways, and more. 

HuntWise is the best tool for e-scouting public or private hunting land! It's the ideal hunting app for all hunters of any skill level. Plus, Elite subscribers have full access to every tool, gain access to our exclusive FieldGuide+ content, and save up to 40% on gear from our partners.

Download the app and start your free trial now! You'll be ready to hunt when the season opens.