A Hunting Enthusiast’s Paradise! The greater Rio Grande County area offers 1.86 million acres of opportunities for big game hunting in the Rio Grande National Forest. Units 76, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83 are the some of the most noted hunting areas offering archery, black powder and rifle hunting seasons from August-December each year. See interactive unit map below.

Seasons include antelope, deer, elk & bear. Bighorn sheep and mountain goat hunts are also available here and can challenge even the most experienced outdoorsmen. Make your plans early to join us…build memories for a lifetime. Many seasons require special drawing licenses. See the DOW Colorado Big Game brochure for info.

Helpful Resources

Download the Interactive Big Game Brochure
Download the Interactive Sheep & Goat Brochure

License Options

Check out Colorado Big Game License Options page for details on license options, including Limited Licenses, Over-the-Counter Licenses, Private-Land-Only Licenses and more. For helpful information on organizing and planning your hunt, please visit the Plan Your Hunt page.

For More Information:
Contact the Division of Wildlife for information on hunting season dates, license fees, applications, and drawing deadlines.

Colorado Department of Wildlife
Monte Vista Office
Phone: 719-587-6900
0722 South Road 1 East
Monte Vista, CO 81144

Information provided by the Colorado Department of Wildlife website.

Interactive Unit Map by Colorado Hunting Atlas
What’s New in 2024 Hunting
Big Game Local Guides & Outfitters
Hunting Outfitter Guides
What’s New in 2024 Hunting
Big Game Local Guides & Outfitters
Hunting Outfitter Guides