Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) has canceled the scheduled mule deer muzzleloader hunt at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site and Fort Carson, originally set for October 11–19. The suspension stems from the ongoing federal government shutdown, which has closed access to these military-managed lands—Game Management Units 142 and 591—used seasonally for public hunting.

This marks the second major disruption to fall hunting in southeastern Colorado, following the earlier cancellation of pronghorn hunts on the same properties. CPW is offering full refunds and restoring preference points to affected hunters, ensuring future draw eligibility despite the lost season.

Conservation and Access Impacts

The muzzleloader season plays a vital role in Colorado’s staggered big game strategy, which balances archery, muzzleloader, and rifle seasons to manage herd health and hunter pressure. The loss of access to Piñon Canyon not only affects hunter participation but also limits CPW’s ability to collect harvest data and monitor mule deer populations during peak migration.

CPW recently adopted a revised five-year season structure, shortening the third rifle season to nine days and reverting to earlier frameworks to reduce stress on mature bucks. These changes reflect growing concern over herd resilience in the face of habitat fragmentation, climate shifts, and increasing vehicle collisions.

Mule Deer in Colorado’s Landscape

Mule deer are a keystone species in Colorado’s wildlife ecosystem and a cultural icon for hunters and conservationists alike. Their seasonal movements—from high alpine summer ranges to lower wintering grounds—make them especially vulnerable to land access disruptions and habitat loss.

As federal negotiations continue, CPW urges hunters to stay informed and explore alternative GMUs unaffected by the shutdown. The agency remains committed to balancing public access, wildlife health, and long-term stewardship.