Smith Fork Ranch

Located deep within the Gunnison National Forest and the West Elk Wilderness area, Smith Fork Ranch offers exceptional big game hunting in a majestic mountain setting. The guided hunting traditions of the ranch date back to 1939 with Grant Ferrier, the original outfitter, taking the first guided hunters into the West Elk Wilderness. Recently restored and refurbished with luxurious amenities, this historic ranch continues to provide access to some of the area’s best hunting country. We pride ourselves with running an efficient, high quality hunting operation with experienced guides, excellent horses and pack animals – and exceptional food, wine and superb accommodations.

Big Game Hunting

The West Elk Wilderness area and the Gunnison National Forest are the home to Elk, Mule Deer and Black Bear as well as Cougar and Bobcats. Our big game hunts concentrate on elk, deer and bear. The ranch operates its backcountry hunting and fish program and eight backcountry camps under special permit from the U.S. Forest Service.

The ranch itself is located at 7100 feet, however, our hunting area and camps are up to 11,000 feet. The terrain is for the most part is rugged and may vary from steep rocky climbs to high mountain meadows, creek drainages and dense forested areas. Most areas are accessible only by horse or foot. Smith Fork Ranch follows the hunting philosophy of the fair chase and ethical hunting. All hunts are 5-day hunts with one day in and one day out. Hunters may want to add additional days to their visit to take advantage of the exceptional fly-fishing opportunities on the ranch.

Guided Hunts

Smith Fork Ranch offers the highest quality guided hunting available in the West Elk Mountains. Our guides share decades of experience hunting big game in these mountains. Hunters may choose to hunt from one of eight fully-equipped camp locations or from the luxury of the Ranch Lodgings.

Guided hunts are complete with guides, lodging, meals, horses, field dressing, and packing out your game. All guided hunts are two hunters to one guide. “One-on-one” hunts are available for an additional charge. Andy Adams, Smith Fork Ranch Manager, says: “Our guides will take you to where the best opportunities are and will do everything they can to make your hunt memorable and successful. We’ll handle all the details for the best hunting experience possible.”

Unguided Ranch Based Hunts

This hunt is for hunters who are familiar with the area or don’t require a guide, yet enjoy the luxury of staying on the ranch.

Drop Camp Hunts

This hunt is a good option for those hunters who are familiar with the area and prefer a more solitary hunting experience without a guide-- yet would like some services to handle the details of camping in the wilderness.

Hunters may opt for one of the Eight camps with wall tents for sleeping and a cook tent for dining and all equipment necessary.

With excellent hunting opportunities and extraordinary service, a hunt at Smith Fork Ranch is an unforgettable experience. Call Pat Smith for a hunting packet with all the details. 970-921-3454.

Smith Fork Ranch hunts operate in Game Management Unit 53 under US Forest Permit #PA09823.