Blog
2026 Summer Update: Water Levels, Fishing, and Mountain Conditions
Here’s a 2026 summer update from Budge’s Wilderness Lodge, including a report on river flows, fishing, and mountain conditions.
3 Most Frequently Asked Questions Heading into the 2026 Season
Heading into the 2026 season, we answer the three biggest questions about snowpack, summer availability, and what fishing may look like this year.
Wilderness Camp Fly Fishing : Three Camps. Three Unique Experiences
Budge’s wilderness camp fly fishing adventures offer three different camp locations: canyon water, meadow stream, or alpine lake. Which one would you choose?
2025 Elk Hunting Recap
A recap of the 2025 elk hunting season at Budge’s Wilderness Lodge, including archery, muzzleloader, and rifle hunts, success rates, and what’s ahead.
2025 Fly Fishing Season Recap from Budge’s Lodge
A look back at Budge’s 2025 fishing season—wild trout, wildfires, wilderness waters, and the incredible people we get to share it with.
We Are Open for the 2025 Season
Budge’s Wilderness Lodge is open for 2025! Explore fly fishing, horseback trips, and plan your 2026 adventure in Colorado’s backcountry.
Why Does Budge’s Open on June 28 Each Year?
People often ask why Budge’s isn’t open until June 28 each year. That’s so late! Here’s the reason for our annual opening at the end of June.
4 Tips for Fishing Streamers on Wilderness Creeks
When fly fishing wilderness creeks, most anglers think of dry flies. But fishing streamers through these small, high country waters can produce big results.
An Inside Look at Our Remote Wilderness Fishing Camps
Our wilderness camp fly fishing trips offer solitude, adventure, and world-class fishing. But what are these trips really like? Here’s an inside look.
What You Need to Know About Archery Elk Hunting at Budge’s
Here at Budge’s Wilderness Lodge, archery elk hunting is one of the highlights of our season. Here’s what you need to know about our archery elk hunts.
Hunt Elk in Colorado This Year
We have new opportunities to hunt elk in Colorado this year. First, a cancellation hunt. Second, a new elk hunt for the hunter who loves adventure.
3 Reasons We’re Proud to Operate on Public Lands in Colorado
Welcome to the Wilderness. It’s all part of your vast, western estate. At Budge’s, we are proud to operate on public lands that belong to all Americans.
Can You Handle an Elk Hunt? Here’s What You Need to Know.
Can you handle a wilderness elk hunt? Many people like the idea of an elk hunt. But in reality, it’s harder than expected. Here are some tips on how to prepare.
6 Ways to Build Shooting Skills for an Elk Hunt
The way you practice shooting skills for an elk hunt is critically important. There’s no doubt, putting in the work will increase your chances of success.
Year in Review and What’s Ahead for Budge’s in 2025
Here’s a quick look back at our fly fishing and elk hunting season in 2024, and a look at what’s ahead for Budge’s Lodge in 2025.
The Best Times to Fish at Budge’s
One of the most frequently asked questions that we receive, is ‘What’s the best time to come fishing?’ Here’s a rundown of the fishing season at Budge’s Wilderness Lodge.
Update on Snowpack and Winter Conditions in Colorado
As it begins to look like spring in Colorado, conditions are looking great, and we are excited for a beautiful 2024 season in the Flat Tops Wilderness Area.
You Can Help Us Defend Science-Based Wildlife Management in Colorado
Help us fight back against extreme "animal welfare" groups, pushing their agenda through ballot initiatives in Colorado. Their proposed legislation would unravel the world’s most successful wildlife management system.
2023 Rifle Season Update from our Colorado Elk Hunts
Here’s an update on the 2023 rifle season hunts here at Budge’s Wilderness Lodge. Our Colorado elk hunts are always memorable and this year was no exception.
Update From the 2023 Archery and Muzzleloader Seasons
Update from the 2023 Archery and Muzzleloader Elk Hunting Seasons at Budge’s Wilderness Lodge in northwest Colorado.