Not a lot going on in Colorado for me. Did see some elk on private property that knew they were safe. Went as high as 11,400 feet looking for them, but no luck. At least I did have an exciting end to my season before I had to come back early for work related stuff. Still no elk talking where I was. After waiting in an area that looked like it had potential and then trying some calls with zero response or anything coming in, I headed back to my camp as it started to get dark in case something came out near the path.
Sure enough, as I was walking I heard a snap and saw an elk through the trees. Didn't know if it saw me or not so I just stayed still and silent and it was coming out. I crouched down on the side of the trail, knocked an arrow, and was ready to draw back.
As I got a peek here and there through the trees I saw it was a bull, but how big? Got another glimpse and saw something coming off its antlers so was thinking maybe it is a legal 4-point. As it made its way out I saw him again, but could see he was a big spike with velvet hanging off which made him look like more.
So he came out on the path, froze when he saw me, but had no idea what I was with my hat tilted down and bow in front of me. Sniffed the ground a few times, had a stare down with me for about a minute, then took off. Didn't range him at the time since it wouldn't have mattered anyway, but ranged a rock he was in front of after he left - 13.3 yards.
At least I finally saw an elk on public property, was fun!
One of three units I tried, only one I used a quad in some of the time
Had to hike to this spot
These mountains are no joke
On private property, of course. Bigger guy ran off smaller guy
Another area I hunted
Saw this guy and a buddy of his
Most scenic area and where I had the bull at 12 yards
