Flattops Wilderness Guides

Flat Tops Wilderness Guides operates under the legacy of Colorado High Guide Service, established over 40 years ago. Today, several original staff members continue the operation, maintaining a deep institutional knowledge of the White River National Forest and Flat Tops Wilderness.

25 Permitted Wilderness Camps Unlike typical Colorado outfitters operating 4-5 camps, FTWG maintains 25 established camps across their permit area. This means hunts are customized to conditions: camps near streams, lakes, elk rutting areas, migration corridors, and oak brush habitat. The closest camps sit 2 miles from base camp; the farthest push 10+ miles and 3,500+ feet elevation gain into truly remote country.

Private Base Camp on 240,000+ Acres Their base camp sits on private property bordering designated road-less wilderness. The operation includes a 3,000 sq ft pack station capable of saddling and packing 30+ mules simultaneously. Unlike remote public-land base camps, emergency services can always reach their facilities. Year-round staffing means constant scouting of hunting and fishing spots.

The White River elk herd numbers 30,000+, with a large portion residing in the Flat Tops. Colorado's 4-point antler restriction and the area's remoteness mean encounters with trophy bulls are genuine possibilities. The region holds trophy-class mule deer genetics—the outfit takes 1-2 world-class bucks annually, with mature bucks common. Cutthroat trout run 18"+ in high lakes; brook trout fishing is available all day in streams and lake systems.

Professional Staff & Stock Guides include experienced horsemen, hunters, fishermen, and survivalists. All guiding staff carry first aid certification; several are Wilderness First Responders. The horses and mules are mountain-bred and trail-proven over decades of packing in this terrain.