Looking for general info on GMU's 42 and 33 for CO muzzleloader elk. Not looking for specific spots or anything, just any experiences/thoughts on these units for this hunt. Trying to narrow down our unit so we can start planning the first scouting trip. Animal numbers during this hunt, hunter competition, etc. I'm calling CO DOW this week to get their take, but want to pool as much info together as possible.No one better to ask than people who may have hunted the area! Any thoughts shared are appreciated! Thanks!

http://wildlife.state.co.us/Hunting/GMUnitMaps.htm

This link may help if you haven't uses it already. You can look at the GMU and overlay the elk ranges to see where the herds are located in general. This would give you a starting point. Use it along with a topo map and Google Earth and you can usually find a great place to hunt.

Hunter 59, thanks for the reply, yes, I've used/use the Co overlay maps to determine quite a few things...I'm looking for more actual hunter experience info regarding these units. I know hunters don't like to spill the info (me either) but just very general info would be helpful! Thanks!

DoeLover, Sorry I can't help much on GMU 42 or 33, I spend all my time in GMU 43. According to the CDOW, 33 has alot of ATV us. It sounds like 42 is more remote. I know in unit 43, during the muzzleloader season, the bulls are up high. We have been there the week before the muzzleloader and hunted with a bow and have found them to be between the 9,500'-11,000' level. As long as you get away from the roads and go high, you should have a great hunt.

Thanks again Hunter 59!

I have hunted 33 during the 2nd rifle season. More hunters than elk and deer. Almost needed reservations to establish a camp. I won't do that anymore.

I am thinking of ML season in 34, 24, 12 units. Not sure if I will go. Don't have anyone to go with and it is a 1100 mile drive for me.