Hi,[/align][/align]I'm looking for advice as I plan my archery elk hunting trip for next year. I'm switching areas and am trying to get a feel for the hunting activity in the area. [/align][/align]In Colorado Units 54 and 55, would you go the week before the blackpowder season to minimize pressure? Or after blackpowder, hoping for better weather (cooler, snow) and more peak rut activity?[/align][/align]Any other thoughts onthose areasare welcome. [/align][/align]Thanks,[/align][/align]Brian[/align]

Unit 55 is BIG and elk are SPREAD out. I used to hunt it. I haven't hunted in years, but prefered to hunt the 3rd week in Sept to try and catchthe rut. Just my thoughts.

The peak of the rut in Colorado varies from year to year and from area to area - but generally I use September 18th as date for the Gunnison area. That generally coincides with the last weekend of the blackpowder season, so you might be better off to hunt towards the end of the archery season. Having said that, though, most of the big bulls seem to be killed the week prior to the blackpowder season. Maybe because they don't really feel the hunting pressure until they hear shots in the woods . . . .

I live in unit 55 and hunt both 54 and 55 mostly hunt deer in 54 but i hunt elk in both units get back with me and i'll help you all i can

Brian,
Are you going in on horseback or what kind of hunting are you after

my uncle (who goes archery elk hunting) said that in unit 55 it is best to go before the muzzleloader season because he has been most successful then. just make sure you have everything including HIP #and all that other stuff