Getting Here : The Journey to Elk Glade

Hunt Prep: Gear & Travel | Elk Glade Outfitters

Prepare for Your Elk Glade Journey

Below you’ll find everything you need to pack and how to get to the ranch — all compiled by experienced guides who’ve helped hundreds of hunters succeed in the Colorado backcountry.

Gear Checklist: What to Bring

Colorado’s mountains are rugged, the weather can shift quickly, and success depends on how well you prepare. Here’s the complete list of what to bring — and why it matters.

Clothing (Layer Smart)

  • 2 sets merino wool base layers
  • Fleece pullover & insulated vest
  • Soft-shell pants & waterproof outer layers
  • Insulated parka for cold rifle seasons
  • Gloves (light & insulated), neck gaiter, beanie
  • Camp clothes and recovery footwear
  • Blaze orange vest and hat (mandatory for rifle)

Footwear

  • Broken-in waterproof hunting boots
  • Camp shoes or insulated slip-ons
  • Optional: Gaiters for wet or snowy terrain

Optics & Weaponry

  • Rifle or bow (sighted in)
  • Ammunition or broadheads (bring extra)
  • Binoculars (8x42 or 10x42)
  • Rangefinder & shooting sticks or bipod
  • Sling or bow carrier

Field & Pack Essentials

  • Daypack with hydration bladder or bottles
  • Game bags, knife, field gloves
  • Headlamp + batteries, lighter, wind checker
  • Flagging tape, multitool, first aid kit

Personal Items

  • Snacks, electrolytes, and energy bars
  • Toiletries, towel, meds, sunscreen
  • Phone, charger, battery pack
  • Map or GPS (onX Hunt recommended)
We Provide: Lodging, meals, showers, ATV/horse transport, game care, and gear checks.

Optional but Useful

  • Trekking poles for steep terrain
  • Seat cushion for glassing
  • Journal, tags wallet, compact towel

Getting to Elk Glade

Do not rely on GPS past The Broadmoor. Cell service drops and GPS may mislead. Follow these directions carefully:

Start: I-25 @ Exit 138 (Circle Drive)

  1. Go west to The Broadmoor – 3.0 mi
  2. Turn left on Lake Ave / Pourtales – 0.3 mi
  3. Veer right to Miranda Ave (golf on right)
  4. Veer right to W. Cheyenne Mtn Blvd – 0.6 mi
  5. Cross Penrose Zoo Rd to Old Stage Rd – 0.8 mi (pavement ends)

Continue on Old Stage Road

  • Pass Emerald Valley – 5.6 mi in
  • Fork left at Gold Camp Rd
  • Pass Bear Trap Ranch & Wye Campground
  • After Penrose-Rosemont Reservoir, take the first left (USFS 372)
  • Go right at the fork to H.C. Rathke gate

Final Segment

  • H.C. Rathke gate – 20.0 miles in
  • Rathke Ranch – 1.7 mi past gate (green house)
  • Continue to Bar Open AK cabins – 23.2 mi total
CAUTION: Do not take Elk Ranch Rd (USFS 374) — it dead ends.

Coordinates & Info

Ranch Coordinates: 38.69467 N, 104.98589 W
Address (not for mail): 13780 CR 8, Victor, CO 80860

Need Help?

Call or contact us before you depart. We’ll gladly verify directions or walk through gear questions to ensure a smooth start to your adventure.