The Colorado Hunting Guide

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Colorado muzzleloader season & rules

Colorado's 2026 muzzleloader season for elk, deer and bear runs September 12–20 — a short nine days inside the archery window — with pronghorn muzzleloader September 21–29. It is limited (draw only): there is no over-the-counter muzzleloader elk. CPW 2025–2029 Season Structure

The dates

The muzzleloader elk and deer seasons fall inside the September archery window; everything is on the season calendar.

It's a draw season

Unlike archery and the 2nd/3rd rifle seasons, muzzleloader is limited — every muzzleloader tag is awarded through the draw, so you apply in the spring and may need preference points for better units. That, plus the short window, keeps hunter numbers down.

Equipment rules

Colorado's muzzleloader regulations are stricter than many states': the season is built around traditional-style muzzleloaders, with rules on ignition, sights, and projectiles that disqualify a lot of modern in-line setups' accessories. Because the details are exact and enforced, we don't paraphrase them loosely — read the current CPW 2026 Big Game Brochure manner-of-take rules, and see legal weapons for how muzzleloader fits alongside the archery and rifle equipment rules. Confirm your setup is legal before the season.

Common questions

When is muzzleloader season in Colorado in 2026?

Elk, deer and bear muzzleloader runs September 12–20, 2026; pronghorn muzzleloader is September 21–29.

Is muzzleloader draw-only in Colorado?

Yes. There is no over-the-counter muzzleloader elk or deer in Colorado — every muzzleloader license is limited and awarded through the draw.

Can I use a scope on my muzzleloader in Colorado?

Colorado's muzzleloader rules restrict sights and other equipment more tightly than many states. Rather than risk a paraphrase, confirm the current scope/sight rule in the CPW Big Game Brochure manner-of-take section before you hunt.

Primary sources

Never miss a deadline

The Colorado draw application closes in early April, and season dates shift a little each year. Leave your email and we'll send one short reminder before the draw deadline and a note whenever the season dates change — nothing else.