Most of the western slope is pretty decent for a variety of big game. However for sheer quantity, the northwest corner can't be beat. Some of the largest elk herds reside in the units surrounding Craig. A couple of the finest trophy units are in the very northwest corner of the state (unit 2 & 201) however even if you're a local, you're still going to have to wait 16+ years to draw a tag for those units. Though the elk are plentiful here, most are not trophy size. We also have plentiful antelope and deer, as well as mountain lion & some bear. So if you're looking for variety, we have it.

Some other areas to look at would be around Gunnison, Montrose, Delta and the Grand Junction area. All those towns are close to some very nice units for elk.

Good luck!

I guess I should rephrase the question. I want to be able to hunt elk out of my backyard. I would like to do this without having to draw (without difficulty) for this area. I plan on buying a chunk of land within 5 years, and I was just curious if anyone had any recommendations for a non-draw/over the counter license area that consitently produced elk.

I think cowgal has answered your question, unless what you're looking for is someplace that consistently produces large bulls without the need to wait years for a draw. A place like that doesn't exist. The entire western slope consistently produces elk. The areas that consistently produce large bulls all require drawing a limited license and all require several years worth of wait.

Over here in Washington. Anyone with a few acres or better have elk in their back yard or feeding with the cattle in the pasture. All you do is pick the side of the mountain you want and go anywhere on that side.

Thanks for the response. I guess I was just fishing for any good spots where I could move to.

Some western slope town suggestions:

Meeker/Craig (NWC hubs for hunting)
Rifle or one of the towns in the roaring fork valley (access to White River National Forest and can hope over to the Grand Mesa Units)
Montrose (62 OTC, 61 limited)
Pagosa Springs (Several trophy and OTC units near by)
Gunnison (Units 54 and 55 are limited as well as some OTC units in driving distance)

Thanks Bit, your message was exactly what I was looking for.

I know a place. Its a plateau between two high mountains. A valley if you will. All the bull elk are fat and slick, the Muley's are too. Record book quality all. I will not share the location with you though. They're Mine all MIne.

Shato... sounds like northwest Colorado to me!

BTW the deer, elk and antelope are all on the move right now and though not slicked down yet, you can see large herds right from the road (and close to town). I need to get my digital camera out and snap some photos...

Yes you do and post em too !!!
I'd love to see photos of herds of Elk and Deer.