Elk hunting at West Elk Wilderness Outfitters in Gunnison Colorado

Saddle up and see Colorado.

Horseback Riding in the West Elk Wilderness

No roads. No motors.

Hunt, Ride & Experience Gunnison Country

West Elk Wilderness Outfitters proudly offers guided elk and mule deer hunts in Colorado’s GMU 54—one of the most remote, game-rich hunting zones in the state. With towering peaks, volcanic cliffs, and wildlife in abundance, this isn’t just a hunt—it’s an unforgettable backcountry experience.

For over 20 years, we’ve guided hunters deep into the West Elk Wilderness on horseback, combining our passion for the land with a strong hunting ethic and backcountry expertise. Our camp’s recent harvests include numerous bulls scoring over 300” B&C—including a 342” giant.

Hunt Packages

Two ways to chase the wild—choose your style.

Guided Base Camp Hunts

Primitive comfort, fully supported.
Accessed by horseback, our guided base camp sits 6 miles deep into the West Elk Wilderness at an elevation of 10,200 feet. This fully equipped camp features:

Heavy-duty wall tents with wood-burning stoves
Comfortable cots with foam pads
A large cook tent with hot meals prepared daily
One guide per two hunters (1:1 upgrades available)
Hunting via horseback and foot in rugged, remote terrain

📅 Hunt Length: 7 Days Total (5 hunting days + pack in/out)
🎯 Species: Elk or Mule Deer
💵 Rate: $8,000 per person

Drop Camp Hunts (DIY)

For seasoned hunters who want to go solo—but with support.
Our drop camps are fully set up and packed in by our team. These remote camps (3–7 miles in) are equipped with:

Canvas wall tents
Wood stoves, basic camp furniture, and cooking gear
Regular camp checks and game pack-out by our team
No horses left in camp (hunter-only use)
Minimum of 2 hunters per drop camp

⚠️ Drop camps are best suited for physically fit hunters with backcountry experience.

💵 Rate: $3,500 per person (2-person minimum)

Booking & License Info

What you need to know before you go.

Reserve Your Spot:

A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your hunt.
Final payment is due prior to packing into camp.
Deposits are transferable if you find someone to take your place.

License Information:

Bull elk tags during 2nd and 3rd rifle seasons are available over the counter
Archery, muzzleloader, cow elk, and deer tags are by draw only (early April deadline)
Hunter Safety Certification required for anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1949

For up-to-date information, visit the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website.