NAVIGATE colorado licenses, permits, draws
Planning a successful hunt in Colorado starts with understanding the licensing system — and we’re here to make it easy. At Elk Glade Outfitters, we guide our guests not only through the wilderness, but also through the state’s permit and draw process. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to big game, this page gives you everything you need to know before heading into the field.
licenses + permits + draws
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Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW) manages one of the most robust and fair big game licensing systems in the country. To hunt elk, mule deer, or turkey in Colorado, you need:
A Valid Hunting License
The Appropriate Species Tag
Hunter Education Certification (if born after Jan. 1, 1949)
Habitat Stamp (required for most hunters)
Licenses are issued either over-the-counter (OTC) or through a limited license draw — depending on the species, location, and season.
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A limited draw is a lottery system used to issue hunting tags in units where demand exceeds supply. Tags are distributed based on preference points, with applications typically due early April each year.
Elk: Some units offer OTC tags; others require a draw.
Mule Deer: Almost all deer tags require a draw.
Turkey: Spring and fall seasons are limited draw, but some OTC tags are available.
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Elk Glade Outfitters operates on private land in limited draw units, which helps ensure low hunting pressure, better success rates, and a more exclusive hunting experience.
We guide our hunters through the entire draw process, offering:
Personalized advice on unit selection and species tags
Updates on application deadlines and regulations
Support with preference point strategies
Guidance on choosing the best season based on moon phase, weather, and game patterns
Our success rate for elk — archery or rifle — is 3–4x higher than the state average, and much of that comes from selecting the right tags in the right units.
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Create a CPW account at cpw.state.co.us
Apply for your species and hunt code
Pay application fee (non-refundable)
Check results in early summer
Purchase license if drawn
Need help? Our team is happy to walk you through it step by step.
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Don’t worry — there are still great options:
OTC tags for elk may be available for specific seasons
Landowner vouchers may become available
Preference point hunts can be planned for next season
Some turkey and predator hunts are available without a draw
We can also help you prepare for a future season by building your points and planning an ideal window to hunt. Just contact us.
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Private land access in premier draw units
Low pressure = high success
Personalized tag guidance
Comfortable lodging, expert guides, and historic ranch basecamp
All-inclusive services: game care, lodging, meals, gear transport, and more
Colorado Tags & Draws
Your Guide to Hunting Licenses, Applications, and Opportunities with Elk Glade Outfitters
Elk Glade Outfitters hunts in some of Colorado’s most game-rich terrain, where success rates are high and the experience is as wild and authentic as it gets. Most of our hunts are located in limited license Game Management Units (GMUs), meaning tags are not available over the counter. The majority of our hunters will need to apply for a tag through the Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW) draw system.
We’re here to help you navigate that process from start to finish.
Limited Draw Hunting Areas
The GMUs surrounding Elk Glade are part of Colorado’s limited license system, which helps regulate hunting pressure and promote healthier wildlife populations. While this means you’ll need to plan ahead and apply for a tag, the payoff is worth it: low hunter density, mature game, and a true backcountry experience.
How to Apply for a Tag in Colorado
All big game hunting applications must be submitted through CPW’s online portal at cpw.state.co.us.
You’ll apply for specific hunt codes, which represent species, weapon type, GMU, and season. Elk Glade will help you identify the best codes for your hunt.
The 2025 application window opens in early March and closes in early April. Tags are awarded via a points-based lottery system, with results released in late May or early June.
2025 Key Dates (Subject to Confirmation by CPW)
- Application Opens: Early March
- Deadline to Apply: Early April
- Draw Results Released: Late May – Early June
- License Purchase Deadline (if drawn): Mid-June
- Hunting Seasons Begin: August (archery), September (muzzleloader), October/November (rifle)
Tag Types at Elk Glade
Elk Glade primarily offers guided hunts for three species:
- Elk (Bull/Cow) – Limited draw tags based on GMU, method of take, and season.
- Mule Deer – All deer tags are limited draw.
- Turkey – Spring and fall turkey tags are limited draw in our region.
What You’ll Need to Apply
- A CPW account set up online
- A valid Hunter Education certificate (if born after 1/1/1949)
- A valid credit card for application fees
- Your preference points and/or prior CPW hunting history
We’ll provide your specific hunt codes and GMU recommendations when you book with us or reach out for support.
What Are Preference Points?
If you don’t draw a tag this year or choose to plan ahead, you can apply for a preference point. These increase your odds of drawing high-demand tags in future seasons.
We’ll help you decide whether to apply for a tag, build points, or both — depending on your goals and timeline.
What If I Don’t Draw?
No tag? No problem. Here are a few alternatives:
- Landowner Vouchers – Occasionally available through our network
- OTC Options – We'll advise on alternate areas and seasons
- Rebook Next Year – And build points in the meantime
Why Elk Glade?
- Private land in a controlled draw zone
- Guidance on draw strategy and hunt codes
- Low hunting pressure = higher quality game
- Expert guides, lodging, meals, and comfortable transport
- Support with field dressing, game handling, and CWD testing
Helpful Resources
Let’s Start Your Hunt Right
Contact Elk Glade Outfitters today to begin your application, ask questions, or reserve your hunt. The earlier we start, the better your chances for a dream-season tag.