Solo back pack for CO elk: Best Dates

[Monte]

I am planning a solo back pack elk hunt with DAS in hand to units 16 or 17. I initially was planning on going out around Sept. 13-20 but noticed that it is also muzzle loader season then. I could also go the first week through labor day to about the 5th. I would appreciate any thoughts about best times for this hunt. Not sure if it is wise to compete with the muzzle loader gang. I would also expect lots of other hunters in area during first week. I do not have 4WD and so was also concerned about chance of snow during 3rd week of September. Any help for this Arkansas boy is much appreciated.

[Hornseeker]

I wouldn't want to compete with the muzzy boys...I'd go early. I've always had great fun the first week of the season here in MT.

Good Luck!

[Crowdog]

You guys know, this thing about competing with muzzleloaders in Colorado has been blown way out of porportion. In the first place, most of the units in Colorado are huge, and it's not like every black powder hunter is going to be right where you are. Second, the numbers are limited by draw, so there isn't that big of a group out hunting. Third, black powder is still a primitive weapon, and most bulls are killed close up and personal. And in reality, thats some of the best hunting cause the bulkls are really kickin it, and most out of state bowhunters are staying home.
What is there, really, to worry about?

[Monte]

Thanks for your replies. Crowdog, I had also heard that from others. Would be great to be backpacked in deep listening to the night bugling.

[Crowdog]

Don't let the black powder hunters ruin the best time of the rut. If you can call, then you stand just as good a chance at killin a bull.
There's nothing in the world like the feeling you get looking down at a dead bull laying at your feet, and realizing that the truck is seven miles away. It's the lonliest feeling in the world. Good luck, and I hoipe that all works out for you. Hunt safe. Crowdog