With permits from the National Park and Forest Service, Dry Creek Ranch is able to offer great public land hunting opportunities. The areas that we target on public land are very secluded, we use years of experience, horses and the proper gear to navigate our way into the terrain most hunters don’t even consider. The preparation that goes into making our public land hunt’s successful starts by the guides spending countless nights sleeping under the stars in the backcountry during the summer watching the elk’s patterns and the antler development of the bulls. If you are looking for an experience of a lifetime in the wilderness this would be a good hunt to consider. For more information about our public hunts please visit the HUNTS tab.
Kolten
A passion that began at a young age for hunting and the outdoors with his father, Kolten harvested his first bull in the White River National Forest where he now guides hunters. In the last 18 years, Kolten built relationships with hunters and other landowners throughout Colorado. In turn, fueling his devotion to utilizing the knowledge, skill, and patience it takes to help others get on big game. As a seasoned hunter, Kolten has always been enchanted with one day having the opportunity to share his passion with others in the great outdoors. In his competitive nature, Kolten takes pride in his skill and will persevere to produce a memorable hunt.
Stories from our hunters
Colton Hurley
Colton Hurley
Colton Hurley
I’m 26, and this was my first elk hunt and my first hunting experience west of the Mississippi. Let me tell you—it did not disappoint. Kolten and his team at DryCreek Outfitters are an outstanding group to work with.
As this was my first time hunting out west and pursuing elk, I had a lot of questions, and Kolten answered every one of them
I’m 26, and this was my first elk hunt and my first hunting experience west of the Mississippi. Let me tell you—it did not disappoint. Kolten and his team at DryCreek Outfitters are an outstanding group to work with.
As this was my first time hunting out west and pursuing elk, I had a lot of questions, and Kolten answered every one of them for me. The weather was definitely a factor, with temperatures dropping to 9 degrees and about two feet of snow on the ground the first morning. Thanks to the experience and knowledge of our guide, he knew exactly where the elk would be in these conditions. His expertise on both the elk and the land we hunted was a complete game changer.
Over the three days I hunted, I saw six mature bulls and more than 40 mule deer. On the day I harvested my bull, our guide, Tristen, positioned me perfectly—close enough to be within my shooting range—and provided guidance every step of the way, including helping me get the bull out of the woods.
What I took away from this hunt is that you’re paying for their experience and knowledge of the land. Be prepared physically before you go, practice shooting your rifle, and let their expertise take care of the rest.
This was a public land hunt and the most challenging three days of my hunting career. However, if you stick with the guide and push through, the team at Dry Creek Ranch will do everything in their power to get you on a bull.
I have definitely found my outfitter for all my future western hunts. They are a fantastic team to work with—friendly, knowledgeable, and they treat you like family. If you’re looking to harvest big, mature bulls and have the experience of a lifetime, I highly recommend Dry Creek Ranch Outfitters.
Jaired Brunty
Colton Hurley
Colton Hurley
I just got back from my first elk hunt with Dry Creek Outfitters, and it was amazing! From start to finish, the team made this trip unforgettable. When I arrived, the staff welcomed me with open arms, which made me feel right at home. The wall tent was cozy and had everything I needed, plus the views of the wilderness were incredible. The
I just got back from my first elk hunt with Dry Creek Outfitters, and it was amazing! From start to finish, the team made this trip unforgettable. When I arrived, the staff welcomed me with open arms, which made me feel right at home. The wall tent was cozy and had everything I needed, plus the views of the wilderness were incredible. The guides were fantastic. They really knew their stuff about elk and were super patient with me as it was my first time hunting elk. They taught me the terms of the land scape, to call, and spot elk, which made me feel ready for our time in the field.
The actual hunting was so exciting! Being out in nature, hearing elk calls, and waiting for the right moment to take a shot was thrilling. The guides worked hard to get us in the best spots and made sure we stayed safe. On the first day, I got to draw my bow on my first elk, and it was a rush! Unfortunately, the elk didn’t give us an ethical shot, but the guides had me in front of elk every day. We had three chances to shoot, but it didn’t work out, which is just how bow hunting goes sometimes.
Overall, my first elk hunt with Dry Creek Outfitters surpassed everything I expected. Kolten was super quick to respond to any questions before and during the trip. The beautiful scenery, knowledgeable guides, and support made it a great experience. I left feeling accomplished and with a new love for nature and hunting. If you’re thinking about your first elk hunt or want to improve your skills, I strongly recommend Dry Creek Outfitters. I’ve already booked my second trip for 2025, and I can’t wait to go back! Thank you, Dry Creek, for an awesome introduction to elk hunting!
Tim Preisch
Arthur Pancioli
Arthur Pancioli
I had an excellent experience with Dry Creek Ranch. They welcomed us the evening before the hunt and took the time to answer all our questions. We discussed what to expect for the upcoming week and reviewed possible day-by-day strategies to maximize our chances of success.
Kolten was my guide, and he did an outstanding job. He was highly
I had an excellent experience with Dry Creek Ranch. They welcomed us the evening before the hunt and took the time to answer all our questions. We discussed what to expect for the upcoming week and reviewed possible day-by-day strategies to maximize our chances of success.
Kolten was my guide, and he did an outstanding job. He was highly professional, knowledgeable about the area, and well-versed in elk behavior and movement. Kolten skillfully positioned us using the wind, terrain, and cover to get us close enough for an ethical shot.
I had two opportunities at big bulls during the hunt and successfully harvested the second one. I can’t say enough good things about Kolten and his operation. I’m already looking forward to earning enough points to return for another incredible hunt.
Thank you again for an unforgettable experience!
Arthur Pancioli
Arthur Pancioli
Arthur Pancioli
My two sons, who love to hunt whitetails, have wanted to do an elk hunt for years. Finally in 2024 we made it happen. A huge shout out and tremendous thanks to Dry Creek Ranch, owner/operator Kolten Johnson, and our guide Tristan Walker. This was truly a once in a lifetime adventure. The arrangements were easy and well thought out. The ac
My two sons, who love to hunt whitetails, have wanted to do an elk hunt for years. Finally in 2024 we made it happen. A huge shout out and tremendous thanks to Dry Creek Ranch, owner/operator Kolten Johnson, and our guide Tristan Walker. This was truly a once in a lifetime adventure. The arrangements were easy and well thought out. The accommodations, albeit a bit chilly during fourth rifle, made the experience great. And ultimately, the outcome was extraordinary. We have done lots of hunting and been with outfitters in the past for Whitetail deer but this was a whole new world of adventure.
Our guide, Tristan was incredibly personable, knowledgeable, and hard-working. Ultimately, when he spotted the fantastic bull that my son Luke ultimately took, he guided Luke to a position for a shot absolute brilliantly. Similarly, the recovery of the animal, while physically challenging, was brilliantly managed by Tristan.
I would highly recommend Dry Creek Ranch to anyone who wants the truest and best of outdoor adventures.
