Hunters looking for a challenge and a chance to explore the wilderness of Colorado might want to set their sights on Lone Mesa State Park. According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, applications are now open for a coveted hunting permit at the scenic park located 23 miles north of Dolores, which boasts an 11,760-acre landscape and elevation changes that offer ideal habitats for bear, elk, and mule deer.
Those eager to throw their hats into the ring have from May 27 until 4 p.m. June 26 to submit their applications, and mind you, whether you click submit now or on the last day it won't nudge the scales in your favor, the permit draw doesn't give a nod to the early birds. The drawing is set for June 27 at the Mancos State Park Visitor Center but don't worry if you can't be there to bite your nails in person, as there's a virtual viewing option that, yes, you should register for ahead of time unless you like last-minute scrambles trying to figure out webinar access while the event is already in full swing.
"Lone Mesa State Park offers excellent hunting opportunities for elk, deer and bear," Park Manager Nolan Tappenden stated, as per Colorado Parks and Wildlife, sharing the park's anticipation of welcoming the select few who emerge victorious in the draw. Success stories will be notified while those less fortunate will be sorted onto a waiting list, so cross your fingers that luck, not just skill, will be on your side. Remember, the rules are clear as daylight: you need a valid license for Game Management Unit 711 and, except for the second and third rifle seasons, that lone Lone Mesa permit won't do squat without it.
