Colorado treats a crossbow as a firearm-season weapon. Any licensed hunter may use one during general rifle seasons, but archery-only seasons are closed to crossbows unless the hunter holds a CPW ADA Accommodation Permit tied to a qualifying disability. Legal crossbows must have at least 125 pounds draw weight, a minimum 14-inch draw, a positive mechanical safety and bolts at least 16 inches long tipped with broadheads at least 7/8 inch wide with two steel cutting edges. ADA permit holders must apply at least 30 days before the season and follow archery manner-of-take rules on scopes.
Terrain & Hunting Landscape
Colorado is a high-altitude playground featuring 14,000-foot peaks, vast "dark timber" forests, and sprawling sagebrush plains. The terrain is physically demanding, often requiring hunters to navigate steep grades and thin air at elevations exceeding 9,000 feet.
Colorado hosts the largest elk herd in the world and is a top destination for mule deer and pronghorn. Other sought-after species include moose, black bear, and Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep.
Public Hunting Areas
Popular public lands include the White River National Forest, Pawnee National Grassland, and Uncompahgre National Forest.
Crossbow & Bowhunting Culture
The state is the epicenter of western elk hunting, characterized by a mix of local traditions and a massive influx of non-resident hunters. The culture prizes physical fitness, backcountry survival skills, and the thrill of hearing a bugling bull in the timber.
Season Overview
Colorado archery seasons run in late August and September, with general rifle seasons in October through November by unit and season code. Crossbows are legal in general seasons; archery-only seasons require an ADA Accommodation Permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a crossbow during Colorado's archery season?
Only with a CPW ADA Accommodation Permit. Crossbows are classified as firearm-season equipment, so hunters without the accommodation must use them during general rifle seasons rather than archery-only seasons.
How do I apply for a Colorado ADA Accommodation Permit?
Submit the CPW ADA Accommodation Permit application at least 30 days before your season begins, describing how your disability affects daily life and hunting. CPW reviews applications within about 30 days and may grant temporary or lifetime accommodations.
What are Colorado's crossbow equipment minimums?
A legal crossbow needs at least 125 pounds draw weight, a minimum 14-inch draw length, a positive mechanical safety and bolts at least 16 inches long with broadheads at least 7/8 inch wide and two steel cutting edges.
Are crossbows allowed in archery-only units in Colorado?
No, not for hunters without an ADA Accommodation Permit. Archery-only seasons and tags are restricted to hand-held bows, while general seasons in the same units are open to crossbows.
What licenses do I need to hunt with a crossbow in Colorado?
You need a valid Colorado hunting license and the appropriate limited or over-the-counter tag for the species, unit and season. An ADA Accommodation Permit is not a license and must be carried along with your license and tag.
Can I use a magnified scope on a crossbow in Colorado?
Hunters with a standard crossbow accommodation may use non-magnifying scopes or 1x illuminated red-dot sights. Magnification above 1x requires a specific CPW accommodation for a magnified scope on a crossbow.
What are the hunter orange requirements in Colorado?
Hunters using a firearm must wear at least 500 square inches of solid daylight fluorescent orange or pink above the waist. This must include a head covering visible from all directions to ensure safety in high-traffic hunting areas.
What is the Habitat Stamp requirement in Colorado?
Most hunters aged 18 to 64 are required to purchase an annual Habitat Stamp before buying or applying for a hunting license. The revenue from this stamp is dedicated to protecting and enhancing wildlife habitat across the state.