5 Days
Cabin
Guide
Horse
Meals
Ripple Creek Lodge's guided hunts take you deep into the Flat Tops Wilderness Area of Northwest Colorado, These hunts are conducted entirely on horseback in Game Management Unit 24 on the White River National Forest. A federally designated Wilderness Area and home to the world's largest Elk herd, the Flat Tops offers guided hunters a unique adventure into remote rugged backcountry of some of the country's finest Elk habitat.
$4950.00 / per person
DATES:Oct 26 2024 - Nov 3 2024
BOOKING INFO:
A mix of small open meadows, aspen covered mountainsides, large stands of spruce, pine and fir forests hold a tremendous Elk population and an abundance of additional wildlife including Mule Deer, Black Bear and Moose.
Each hunting party will be assigned their own cabin at the Ripple Creek Lodge complex. The cabins are capable of accommodating 3 to 6 hunters and come equipped with kitchen facilities, running hot and cold water, full bathrooms, and furnished bedding and towels. Laundry and ice facilities are available on-site for convenience.
Meals will be served at the Lodge in either a family-style or banquet setting for both breakfast and dinner throughout the entirety of your stay. Additionally, each hunter will be provided with a pack lunch for their day out in the field.
During the fall months, Colorado experiences extreme weather conditions with nighttime temperatures dropping well below freezing and daytime temperatures ranging from the mid 50’s to 60’s. It is crucial to be adequately prepared for fluctuating temperatures and moisture levels. Layering warm, waterproof clothing is recommended to address these challenges effectively.
Our seasoned horses will carry you into the backcountry each day of your hunt. We have a strict weight limit of 250 lbs. on our horses to insure a safe trip into our hunting areas. Be prepared to ride for at least a few hours each day on rugged trails in order to reach our remote hunting areas.
Please allow to arrive at the Lodge at least one day prior to the beginning of the season so that staff can size you up to a horse and saddle and your body can acclimatize to the Rocky Mountain elevation.
What is the best caliber rifle to bring on this hunt?
The most important thing is accuracy and knowledge of your ballistics and ranges. The best elk rifle calibers run from the 30.06 to the 338. Find one that you can carry comfortably in mountain terrain and can shoot with confidence.
Am I guaranteed an elk if I book with you?
Taking a bull elk in the mountains under fair chase is one of the most challenging trophies in North America. While we do hunt one of the biggest elk herds in the world, there are never any guarantees with hunting. Our experienced guides and camp placements will provide you with the best possible chance at a harvest.
If I accidentally wound an animal during a hunt, do I keep hunting?
If you wound an elk or deer, that animal is considered taken whether the animal is recovered or not. Our guides will help you put in the best effort for recovery of your game. If the animal is not recovered, you may continue to hunt for that animal only.
What is considered a legal bull elk?
A legal Colorado bull elk taken must have 4 points* or more on 1 antler OR must have a brow tine** at least 5 inches long. If your elk can meet either of these criteria, you have a legal bull.
What happens if I tag out early?
If you wish to stay at camp there are plenty of activities to complete your trip while your game is in the freezer. We offer half day and full day fly fishing trips as well as horseback rides through the Flat Tops.
Do I need to buy a license before I arrive?
Yes. You must purchase your license before midnight of the first day of opening season. You can get your license at Colorado Parks and Wildlife or a local sporting goods store.
Do I need to know how to ride a horse?
No. Our horses are gentle and conditioned for trail riding. They will provide a comfortable ride to and from your hunting area.
Deposits for all hunts are non-refundable. If you are unable to make your trip, you may apply your deposit for a different season or for a hunt next year. If you select to hunt a different season you will retain 100% of the credit for your deposit.
We appreciate your efforts to communicate with us as early as possible if you might need to cancel. Please call us at 970-878-4725 to discuss details.
Our drop camps are located in prime elk habitat deep in the White River National Forest and the Flat Tops Wilderness Area of northwest Colorado.
Our drop camps are located in prime elk habitat deep in the White River National Forest and the Flat Tops Wilderness Area of northwest Colorado.
Our drop camps are located in prime elk habitat deep in the White River National Forest and the Flat Tops Wilderness Area of northwest Colorado.
Our drop camps are located in prime elk habitat deep in the White River National Forest and the Flat Tops Wilderness Area of northwest Colorado.
Our drop camps are located in prime elk habitat deep in the White River National Forest and the Flat Tops Wilderness Area of northwest Colorado.
Our drop camps are located in prime elk habitat deep in the White River National Forest and the Flat Tops Wilderness Area of northwest Colorado.
Our drop camps are located in prime elk habitat deep in the White River National Forest and the Flat Tops Wilderness Area of northwest Colorado.
Our drop camps are located in prime elk habitat deep in the White River National Forest and the Flat Tops Wilderness Area of northwest Colorado.
Our drop camps are located in prime elk habitat deep in the White River National Forest and the Flat Tops Wilderness Area of northwest Colorado.
Our drop camps are located in prime elk habitat deep in the White River National Forest and the Flat Tops Wilderness Area of northwest Colorado.
Our drop camps are located in prime elk habitat deep in the White River National Forest and the Flat Tops Wilderness Area of northwest Colorado.
Our drop camps are located in prime elk habitat deep in the White River National Forest and the Flat Tops Wilderness Area of northwest Colorado.
