What to Know About Colorado Hunting Regulations

For anyone new to the state or planning a destination hunt, Colorado hunting regulations can be tricky. Colorado is home to some of the most sought-after big game species in the country, but if you're not familiar with them, the rules here can feel as inhospitable as the cold weather.

From limited license draws to blaze orange requirements and bear-specific laws, hunters in Colorado need to be well-informed before heading out. You'll need to review key regulations, licensing rules, and safety standards, along with links to official resources where you can stay current.

Let's get started.

Who Sets the Rules: Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW)

Hunting in Colorado is managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, commonly referred to as CPW. This state agency oversees wildlife conservation, public land access, and the regulation of hunting seasons, methods, and licensing.

CPW ensures that ethical and sustainable hunting practices are maintained across the state. Public, private, and out-of-state hunters all fall under CPW regulations.

Big Game Hunting and the Draw System

Colorado uses a limited license draw system for most big game species. For those unfamiliar, you apply in advance during the primary draw period and hope your application is selected.

To improve your odds, Colorado offers preference points, and you earn one each year you apply and don't draw a tag in certain units. Over time, more points will increase your odds of drawing a high-demand license.

Understanding how the draw works and planning for it is crucial. Some hunters apply for years before drawing a coveted tag in a premium unit. 

When Can You Hunt? Season Dates and Weapon Types

Colorado's season dates depend on the species, the type of weapon used, and the GMU (Game Management Unit) where you're hunting.

For example, archery season for elk may open in late August, while rifle season for the same species could begin weeks later in a different unit. Muzzleloader seasons also have distinct windows. Even more confusing . . . deer and elk don't always share identical timelines or rules, even within the same region.

To avoid confusion and make sure you're planning your hunt within legal timeframes, simply check this guide to Colorado hunting season dates or review the most recent CPW brochure.

Where Can You Hunt?

Colorado is divided into more than 180 GMUs, and the rules vary in each of them. Always use a mapping tool like Huntwise and check CPW's online GMU maps to verify the rules for your chosen unit.

Legal Hunting Methods and Safety Requirements in Colorado

Colorado has specific rules for legal methods of take, which vary depending on the type of weapon used and the species being targeted.

Legal hunting methods include:

• Archery: Hunters must meet minimum draw weight requirements and can't use scopes or battery-powered electronics on bows.
• Muzzleloaders: Must meet caliber minimums and use peep, open, or iron sights — optics are not allowed.
• Rifles: Hunters must ensure their firearm meets the minimum caliber requirements for the species they're after.

During any rifle season, hunters are also required to wear at least 500 square inches of solid blaze orange or pink on the head, chest, and back.

License and Stamp Requirements for All Hunters

Every hunter in Colorado must carry a valid license for the game they're pursuing. Most licenses also require a Habitat Stamp, which helps fund wildlife conservation and public access efforts. The only exceptions are one-day licenses and youth hunters under 18 years old.

You'll also want to understand how preference points affect your future hunts. Even if you're not planning a big hunt this year, you should get a qualifying license and build points.

Hunter Education Rules in Colorado

If you were born on or after January 1, 1949, you'll need a certified hunter safety course to get a Colorado hunting license. That law applies to both Colorado residents and visitors from out of state.

However, Colorado accepts valid hunter education certifications from all other U.S. states and Canadian provinces. So, you don't need to retake the course if you've already completed it elsewhere, as long as you have proof of certification.

CPW offers multiple course formats, including:

• Traditional classroom courses: For some age groups or those who prefer face-to-face learning.
• Combination courses: If you prefer to take an online course (like the one we offer here at Hunter-Ed) for the safety education portion of the requirement, you'll complete the requirement with an in-person Conclusion Class.
• Test-out option: Available to residents and nonresidents age 50 and older and U.S. military personnel.

Regardless of how you complete the course, you must carry proof of certification with you while hunting.

Special Regulations for Bears and Cougars

If you're planning a black bear or mountain lion hunt in Colorado, you'll need to follow some additional rules.

Black bear hunting requires a separate license and, in some cases, mandatory tooth submission after a successful harvest. This helps CPW monitor bear populations and age structures.

Cougar hunters must check daily harvest quotas before and after each hunt. You're required to contact CPW both before the hunt begins and after a harvest as part of strict management efforts.

Important Laws All Hunters Should Know

Beyond species-specific rules, there are a few universal hunting laws that apply statewide.

These laws include:

• Private land access: Requires written permission. Even accidental trespassing will mean hefty fines.
• Party hunting: Always illegal. You can't tag an animal harvested by another hunter, even if you're in the same group.
• Carcass tagging: Mandatory. Once you harvest game, you must immediately tag it using your valid license.
• Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD): Testing may be required. If you're hunting deer or elk, be aware of mandatory submission zones.

Follow those foundational rules to avoid unintentional violations.

Stay Up to Date on Colorado Hunting Regulations

Because Colorado hunting regulations can change from year to year, it's important to review the most current rules before every season. 

We recommend using digital tools like the MyColorado app, which lets you store hunting licenses, digital carcass tags, and more. Both digital and paper options are acceptable, but having your documents ready in either format is the law.

Be Informed, Be Safe, and Be Ready for a Colorado Hunt

Chasing Colorado elk or mule deer is a dream hunt, but knowing the Colorado hunting regulations lets you hunt legally, ethically, and confidently. Colorado's draw system, weapon rules, unit-specific guidelines, and species-specific laws can be overwhelming. Using the tools and tips we've described will help you become a safe, skilled, and responsible hunter. 

If you're new to hunting or new to the state, taking a hunter safety course through Hunter-Ed is the best way to be ready for your Colorado hunt. 

Our course is approved by the State of Colorado and covers everything you need to know to stay safe while helping you meet the requirements for hunter education!