Our drop camps are located deep into the White River National Forest and the Flat Tops Wilderness Area of northwest Colorado. Tremendous Elk habitat surrounds the camp allowing hunters the opportunity to hunt directly from the camp area without the need for horses or miles of hiking. Camps can accommodate 2 to 8 hunters and offer a comfortable base in the remote backcountry during your hunt.
$2450.00 / per person
DATES:Sep 14 2024 - Sep 18 2024
BOOKING INFO:Our Wilderness Drop Camps are located in prime elk habitat, deep into the White River National Forest and the Flat Tops Wilderness Area of northwest Colorado.
Each camp contains two tents, with one in place to house the cooking facilities while the other will be set and furnished as the sleep tent. The camps are set in their permitted area prior to your arrival and will include the following equipment: Tents, Stove, Heaters, Lanterns, Cooking Pots and Pans, Paper Goods, Cots, First Aid Kit, Water Carrying Container, Toilet Seat.
All of Ripple Creek Lodge’s drop camp sites are located next to a water source. Most of these water sources are small springs and produce good water. It is the hunter’s responsibility to purify the water for safe consumption. All of the heating, lighting and cooking equipment is fueled by propane for camp comfort and also eliminates the need for a campfire or wood burning stove. This extra step allows hunters to stay in a clean, quiet, and low impact camp in the center of Elk country.
Since our drop camps are packed in via horse, weight consideration is a very important part of your pre-trip planning. All hunters will only be allowed to take to camp:
– 1 duffel bag (provided by Ripple Creek Lodge, weight not to exceed 50 lbs.)
– 1 small day pack (to be carried with you, on your horse, weight not to exceed 15lbs)
– Your Rifle
A good way to achieve these weight requirements is to pack with your entire hunting party and make sure that the camp is not doubling up on items that can be shared. 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.
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 a satellite phone?
A satellite texting or calling device is a good idea since reception is spotty back in the wilderness. This will allow you to communicate back to camp for packing an animal out or emergency situations.
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.