🦌 2026–2027 Season

Colorado Deer Season Dates

Colorado is the premier mule deer destination in the West. Draw odds vary dramatically by unit.

Mule Deer
⚠️ Always verify dates with the official state agency before heading into the field — season dates can change year to year. Visit Colorado Parks & Wildlife →

Colorado 2026–2027 Season Dates

🏹
Archery Season
Aug 30 – Sep 28
🎯
Rifle Season
Oct 4 – Oct 22 (1st) · Oct 25 – Nov 4 (2nd) · Nov 8 – Nov 24 (3rd)
💨
Muzzleloader Season
Sep 13 – Sep 28

Colorado Hunting License Costs

Resident License
~$34
Approximate — fees change annually
Non-Resident License
~$603
Approximate — tags may require separate draw
Buy Your License
Purchase through the official state agency to ensure you have the correct license and tags.
Visit Colorado Parks & Wildlife →

Colorado Opening Day Gear Checklist

Don't leave the truck without these. This checklist covers the essentials for any deer hunt — whether you're on public land or a private lease.

✓
Hunting license & tags
Printed or digital — required in the field
✓
Safety harness
Non-negotiable for tree stand hunters
✓
Trail camera / cellular cam
Pre-season scouting intel
✓
Rangefinder
Know the distance before the shot
✓
Scent control spray & clothing
Reduce your human odor signature
✓
Field dressing kit
Knife, gloves, game bags
✓
Binoculars
Glass before you move
✓
Headlamp (red light)
Preserve night vision on dark walks in
✓
First aid kit
Always in the pack
✓
Communication device
Cell phone or satellite messenger in remote areas