Calling out there to the headquarters is a good thing. They are VERY user friendly and have always been very eager to help me.
I looked at those areas very hard but ended up hunting farther north near the Wyoming border. I have also hunted at Flat Tops, outside of Alamosa, and near the 4 Corners area. I have done the best out of Alamosa & 4 Corners. I feel that is primarly due to weather. Most all yrs I hunt second season and the snow was a factor.
I worked out there many yrs running a lodge. The majority harvest was done first or second rifle season. All the seasons were full of hunters. Most all of the public ground is closed until the OTC tags & second season. Some ares are open to draw hunters only depending on previous harvest numbers. The deeper you go, the better you will be.
Colorado's game system is very complicated but if you make a list of questions and ask when you call they will give you the answers. All except where to walk up and shoot one. HA !
Be sure to cross check the small game and birds seasons while you will be there. One yr I hunted Sage Grouse & Blue Grouse wearing t-shirts and walking in the snow.
