Bear Hunts
The bears in North Park have steadily been on the rise. In fact, bear populations have been on the rise all across the state, and much of it has to due with the closure of the Spring Bear Season years ago. We see many bears every year, and have had much opportunity and success. The use of bait or dogs is not permitted any longer, so hunting them is more a matter of being in the right place at the right time ( berry patches, carcasses and gut piles ). Being in the right location and spending some time behind a spotting scope can usually produce an opportunity.
The best time to hunt them is in September during the Archery, Muzzleloader, or limited Rifle Seasons. Archery and Muzzleloader Licenses are sold over-the-counter, but they have caps. The earlier rifle is Drawing Only, but it can be drawn every year. Some licenses are also sold over-the-counter to accompany the Rifle Elk Seasons. If you are considering an elk or deer hunt, consider a bear tag too. There is no extra charge for a combo Deer/Bear Hunt or a Elk/Bear Hunt. Why do we offer this you ask? Well, you can see what even a small bear can do to an empty drop camp!