Colorado’s 2026 big-game hunting seasons set for fall
Colorado hunters are preparing for another fall in the field as the state’s 2026 big-game hunting seasons approach.
Wayne D. Lewis, Colorado Parks and Wildlife/Courtesy photo.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife has released its 2026 Big Game Hunting Brochure, outlining season dates, license requirements and regulations for deer, elk, pronghorn, moose and black bear.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s 2026 Big Game Hunting information is the best source for Grand County hunters. CPW said that individual hunt dates can vary by license, hunt code and game management unit, so check licenses and the official regulations before heading out.
Deer and elk
The primary fall seasons for deer and elk begin with archery in September, followed by muzzleloader and four rifle seasons.
- Archery: Sept. 2-30, 2026
- Muzzleloader: Sept. 12-20, 2026
- First rifle: Oct. 14-18, 2026
- Second rifle: Oct. 24-Nov. 1, 2026
- Third rifle: Nov. 7-15, 2026
- Fourth rifle: Nov. 18-22, 2026
Pronghorn
Pronghorn hunters also have several opportunities during the 2026 season. Dates vary by the method of take and hunt area, so hunters should consult the official brochure and their license for specific hunt dates.
Moose
Moose hunting is offered through limited licenses, with hunters required to draw a license for eligible hunts. See the specific season dates and hunt codes in the CPW Big Game Hunting Brochure.
Black bear
Black bear hunting is regulated through Colorado’s big-game regulations. Season dates and license requirements vary depending on the hunt and location.
Bighorn sheep and mountain goats
Bighorn sheep and mountain goat hunting are covered separately from the main Big Game Hunting Brochure. CPW publishes a separate Sheep and Goat Hunting Brochure with specific regulations and season dates.
Mountain lions
Mountain lion hunting is regulated separately from the state’s regular deer and elk seasons. CPW lists the 2026-27 mountain lion license period as running from March 31, 2026, through March 31, 2027.
Hunters should check the current regulations for season, unit, license and harvest requirements before hunting mountain lions.
Check the regulations before planning your hunt
Colorado’s big-game regulations can differ substantially by game management unit, species, license and method of take. CPW recommends hunters check their physical license and the official Big Game Hunting Brochure for the exact dates and legal hunting hours that apply to their hunt. Find all the information at the CPW Big Game hunting website.
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