Ages 12+ • 5 Days • Up to 2 People
Venture into the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains near Westcliffe, Colorado, on a five-day guided elk hunt. Combining horseback access, expert guidance, and cozy backcountry camps, this trip is a must for dedicated rifle hunters seeking an authentic, challenging experience.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
5 days
Fitness Level
Good physical shape required for navigating steep, uneven terrain and enduring long hunting days
Wildlife
History
The Sangre de Cristo Mountains have long been a hunting ground for indigenous peoples and settlers alike, adding a deep cultural resonance to modern backcountry hunts.
Conservation
Dry Creek Ranch Outfitters follows strict ethical hunting practices and emphasizes sustainable use of public lands to preserve ecosystems for future generations.
Dry Creek Ranch
Ages 12+ • 5 Days • Up to 2 People
Dry Creek Ranch is a guided hunting operation based in Westcliffe, Colorado, specializing in elk and mule deer hunts across public and private land. Located near the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and adjacent to the Greenhorn Mountains, Dry Creek Ranch offers guided rifle hunts, cow elk hunts, and limited private‑land trophy mule deer hunts on nearly 8,000 acres of exclusive property. Hunts run at elevations from 7,000 to 11,000 feet, providing diverse terrain and high‑country conditions.
Guides operate small camps and provide expert, personalized attention using spot‑and‑stalk techniques, horseback, and ATV access to reach prime hunting areas. Wilderness lodging and meals are included on many hunts, with optional cabin upgrades available for added comfort. Trip lengths vary by season and license type, including multiple rifle seasons and four‑ to five‑day itineraries for public‑land elk hunts, plus specific mule deer seasons focused on trophy bucks.
Dry Creek Ranch emphasizes ethical, guided hunting experiences managed to maximize opportunity in Colorado backcountry. The operation lists a range of trips including first through fourth rifle elk seasons in Westcliffe and Kremmling, multi‑day public‑land elk hunts, private‑land cow elk hunts, and restricted mule deer hunts in second and third seasons. Each trip description clarifies access methods, lodging, and guiding style.
Hunters booking at Dry Creek Ranch can expect focused attention, experienced logistical support, and access to both public and private hunting grounds near Westcliffe, Colorado. All marketing and trip information reflect the business’s advertised offerings and locations. Reservations are arranged through the business contact directly.
Elevation Range
7,000–11,000 ft
High‑country terrain for elk and mule deer
Private Acres
Nearly 8,000 acres
Exclusive private‑land access
Trip Lengths
4–5 days
Multi‑day public‑land elk hunts
Trips Offered
11 trips
Various rifle and cow elk seasons
Check availability for the season and secure a spot on public or private‑land hunts in the Sangre de Cristo and Greenhorn areas.
Prepare for Variable Terrain
Expect rugged mountain trails, so wear sturdy boots with good ankle support to handle rocky and uneven ground.
Weather Can Change Quickly
Bring layered clothing as mountain weather can shift fast, from warm sun to cold winds and storms.
Altitudes Affect Stamina
Acclimate to the higher elevations ahead of your hunt to avoid altitude sickness and maintain energy levels.
Pack Light and Efficient
Limit your gear to essentials to ease movement on horseback and ATV segments and maximize comfort.
High-Quality Hunting Rifle
Accurate and reliable for safe, ethical harvesting of elk in mountainous terrain.
fall
Durable Waterproof Boots
Protect your feet on rocky slopes and keep dry during unpredictable weather.
fall
Layered Outdoor Clothing
Allows quick adaptation as temperatures shift throughout the day in the mountains.
fall
Daypack with Hydration System
Carry essentials comfortably and stay hydrated during long hunts.
fall