Challenges and Rewards of Hunting Mountain Lions in Colorado

Why Colorado Mountain Lion Hunting Stands Apart

Colorado offers one of the most exciting and physically demanding big-game hunts in North America: pursuing mountain lions in steep canyons, dark timber, and rugged high-country terrain. These predators are elusive, intelligent, and incredibly athletic, requiring specialized skills and mental toughness from hunters.

Whether you’re planning a guided hunt with hounds or a spot-and-stalk adventure, Colorado’s lion country delivers a true test of endurance and skill. To compare vetted lion outfitters and expert houndsmen, explore options through Find A Hunt.

The Challenges of Hunting Mountain Lions in Colorado

1. Rugged, High-Elevation Terrain

Mountain lions thrive in steep, broken country:

• Deep canyons

• Rimrock and cliffs

• Dense north-facing timber

• Remote creek bottoms

Hunts often involve long hikes, side-hill traverses, and climbing through snow or ice. Physical conditioning is not optional—it’s essential.

2. Tracking in Winter Conditions

Most lion hunts take place in winter when fresh snow reveals tracks. Challenges include:

• Determining track age (critical for locating a lion that’s still close)

• Following tracks across steep, unstable slopes

• Reading snow conditions to understand movement and direction

A successful lion hunter—or houndsman—must be part tracker, part mountaineer.

3. The Elusiveness of Lions

Mountain lions naturally avoid humans. Even in lion-rich areas, sightings are rare. Their ability to:

• Move silently

• Circle back on tracks

• Travel miles overnight

• Hide in thick timber
  makes them one of the hardest big-game animals to pursue.

4. Regulations & Management

Colorado carefully manages lion harvests through:

• Quota systems

• Unit-specific closures

• Mandatory check-in and sealing

• Ethical expectations for shot placement and handling

Hunters must stay updated on daily quotas and call-in requirements—any change can shut down a unit instantly.

5. The Emotional Challenge

Lion hunting is intense. The chase, the conditions, and the close-quarters encounter often create a powerful emotional experience. Ethical decisions—such as passing on females or evaluating shot angles in tight cover—require discipline and respect for the predator.

The Rewards of Hunting Mountain Lions

1. One of North America’s Most Unique Hunts

Few hunts match the adrenaline of following a pack of well-trained hounds or tracking a big tom across fresh snow. Every pursuit is different, every canyon offers a new puzzle, and every encounter is unforgettable.

2. Incredible Predator Management Impact

Mountain lion hunting plays a vital role in:

• Balancing deer and elk populations

• Reducing pressure on calves and fawns

• Supporting scientific data through mandatory harvest reporting

Your harvest directly contributes to conservation and wildlife management.

3. A True Challenge for the Skilled Hunter

This hunt tests:

• Physical fitness

• Tracking ability

• Patience

• Mental toughness

• Shot discipline under pressure

Completing a lion hunt feels like an earned accomplishment, not luck.

4. Exceptional Trophy Potential

Colorado produces mature toms with impressive skull scores. Even average-sized lions create beautiful mounts that capture the essence of Western predator country.

5. Lifelong Memories & Respect

Few hunts leave a deeper connection to the landscape. Spending days in remote winter backcountry teaches humility, respect for wildlife, and appreciation for the effort required.

Hunting Methods Used in Colorado

Hound Hunting (Most Common & Effective)

Experienced houndsmen use snow tracks and dog packs to trail a lion until it trees or bays up on the ground. Benefits include:

• High success rates

• Fair-chase pursuit

• The ability to evaluate sex and maturity before the shot

• Safe, controlled shooting conditions

Spot-and-Stalk (Rare, but Possible)

Some hunters pursue lions by:

• Glassing canyon rims

• Cutting tracks without dogs

• Tracking quietly for miles

This method is extremely difficult and demands advanced tracking skills.

What Makes a “Good” Lion Track?

Understanding track freshness is crucial.

Fresh Tracks Show:

• Crisp edges

• Visible toe definition

• Clear pad impressions

• Lack of snowmelt or wind erosion

A track just hours old can lead to a lion nearby—an older track often means miles of hiking for nothing.

Physical & Mental Preparation

Mountain lion hunting requires serious readiness.

Physical Conditioning

Prepare for:

• Long hikes at high altitude

• Side-hilling through snow

• Steep ascents and descents

Gear to Expect

• Insulated boots

• Snow gaiters

• Layering system

• GPS or mapping app

• Trekking poles

• Pack for meat and hide

• Hand warmers and emergency gear

Mental Flexibility

You may hike all day with no treeing. Weather may shut down track visibility. Patience and persistence define success.

Ethical Considerations

Identifying Sex & Maturity

Responsible lion hunters avoid shooting females—especially those with kittens. Mature toms show:

• Wider track width

• Heavier stride

• More prominent pad shape

• Blockier head and broader chest

Humane Shots

Take only:

• Clear, safe, close-range shots

• Angles that preserve hide and ensure quick kills

Respect for the Predator

Mountain lions are apex animals. Ethical hunters show respect throughout the process—tracking, handling the hide, and telling the story.

Working With a Colorado Lion Outfitter

Because lion hunting is specialized, most hunters book with outfitters who provide:

• Trained hounds

• 4x4 and snowmobile access

• Track cutting expertise

• Regulations guidance

• Field care and trophy preparation

• Pack-out assistance

The right outfitter dramatically increases safety, success, and enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best time of year for Colorado lion hunts?

Winter (Dec–March), when snow improves tracking and visibility.

Are Colorado mountain lion tags over the counter?

Yes, but units have harvest quotas—hunters must check daily status.

Do I need to be in great shape?

Yes. Lion hunting is one of the most physically demanding hunts in Colorado.

Do female lions often have kittens with them?

Frequently. Ethical hunters and guides always identify females carefully before shooting.

Is hound hunting fair chase?

Yes—hound hunting is a traditional, regulated, and conservation-based method that allows careful sex identification and ethical shot placement.

If you’d like, I can tailor this article to a specific region of Colorado (Western Slope, San Juans, Front Range, etc.) or revise an older Find A Hunt page focused on mountain lion hunts.