Business Details
43 Years
experience
Guided Trophy Elk & Deer Hunts in Colorado
Since 1983, Colorado Trophies has provided premier guided hunting experiences in the San Juan Mountains of southwest Colorado. Our operations span thousands of acres of private and public land, including permits in the Uncompahgre National Forest, offering unparalleled access to trophy mule deer and elk. With a proven track record of success rates exceeding 75% for deer and 50% for elk, we combine expert guiding with exceptional accommodations at our 6,000-square-foot Wing Shadow Ranch lodge. Our team of professional guides, many with decades of experience, specializes in tailoring hunts to individual capabilities using spot-and-stalk, drive, and bugling techniques.We maintain strict safety protocols and ethical hunting practices while providing comprehensive packages that include meals, lodging, and transportation during hunts. Recognized for producing Boone & Crockett record deer and exceptional elk, our outfitting service has attracted repeat clients for over four decades. We offer archery, muzzleloader, and rifle hunts across multiple seasons, with specialized bear hunting options available. Our commitment to quality extends to post-hunt services like meat processing and taxidermy coordination, ensuring a complete outdoor experience.
Services
Archery Hunts
Muzzleloader Hunts
Rifle Hunts
Elk Hunting
Deer Hunting
Bear Hunts
Guided Tours
Lodging Packages
Game Processing
Taxidermy Coordination
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of proven success with trophy mule deer and elk hunts
- Expert guides with decades of mountain hunting experience
- Access to 11,000 feet of elevation across private and public lands
- 75%+ success rate for deer and 50%+ for elk hunts
- Luxury accommodations with home-cooked meals included
What people say
Excellent guides
Exceptional accommodations
5-star outfitter
Great hunting success
Incredible food
Services
Archery Hunts
Our archery hunts target trophy mule deer and elk in their natural habitats from 7,000 to 11,500 feet elevation. Hunters utilize ground blinds and spot-and-stalk techniques depending on seasonal conditions. With expert guides and prime locations, we maintain a 60%+ opportunity rate for archers seeking challenging Western hunts.
Rifle Hunts
Rifle hunts cover diverse terrain from alpine peaks to desert basins during multiple seasons. Hunters pursue mature bucks and bulls in areas renowned for producing record-class animals. Our 50%+ success rate for elk and 70%+ for deer reflects optimal timing and guide expertise.
Muzzleloader Hunts
These traditional hunts combine modern effectiveness with frontier-style shooting using muzzleloading firearms. Available during dedicated seasons, they offer unique opportunities for hunters seeking extended challenges while maintaining higher effective ranges than archery equipment.
Bear Hunts
Spot-and-stalk bear hunts complement deer/elk trips or function as standalone adventures. Conducted in prime habitat with experienced guides, these hunts target trophy-class animals while maintaining ethical fair-chase principles in Colorado's premier bear country.
Lodge Stays
Wing Shadow Ranch provides luxury accommodations with home-cooked meals, private rooms (available), and recreational amenities. Located on a private lake at mountain base, it serves as basecamp for all hunting operations with comfortable gathering spaces after daily hunts.
People
Tom Colander
Owner/Operator
With over 40 years of guiding experience, Tom Colander founded Colorado Trophies in 1983. A recognized expert in Western big game hunting, he personally oversees operations and maintains active field involvement.
Lynn Colander
Owner/Operator
Co-owner Lynn Colander manages lodge operations and guest services. Her hospitality expertise ensures visitors enjoy exceptional accommodations and dining throughout their hunting experience.
Questions
What hunting licenses are required for Colorado hunts?
All deer tags require draw applications by early April. Bull elk licenses are available OTC for specific seasons. We assist with license applications through Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
What is included in your hunting packages?
Packages include professional guiding, lodging, meals, transportation during hunts, and game care. Exclusions: licenses, weapons, ammunition, and optional taxidermy services.
How are hunting success rates calculated?
Our 75%+ deer and 50%+ elk success rates reflect decades of data across multiple seasons, based on ethical harvests rather than mere sightings during guided outings.
What accommodations are available for non-hunters?
Non-hunting guests enjoy full lodge access with $2,250 package including meals and recreational activities. Private rooms available for additional $1,250 fee.
What weather conditions should hunters prepare for?
Archery/muzzleloader seasons average 30-70°F with thunderstorms. Rifle seasons range 20-50°F with snow possible. Hunters should prepare for variable mountain weather conditions.
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