Theodore Roosevelt's Legendary Mountain Lion Hunt in Colorado

Embracing the Wild: Roosevelt's Unforgettable Colorado Hunt

A Sportsman's Spirit: Unveiling Roosevelt's True Nature Beyond Politics

Even as he prepared to step into the role of Vice President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt remained, at heart, an ardent outdoorsman. Far from the rigid confines of political office, he found solace and exhilaration in the untamed wilderness. His character was marked by an unwavering honesty, a fearless spirit, and a deep affection for the natural world, echoing the legendary figures of Nimrod, Izaak Walton, and "Nessmuk." Encountering Roosevelt in the realm of sportsmanship meant connecting with a man who transcended social formalities, embracing a fundamental equality among fellow outdoor enthusiasts. He was a paragon of ethical hunting, always willing to shed the burdens of convention for the raw authenticity of the wilderness.

Colorado's Welcome and the Media's Misdirection: A Hunt Shrouded in Sensation

The anticipation of Roosevelt's visit to Colorado for a hunting expedition was met with both excitement and pride across the state. Locals believed he would pursue game with integrity and success, having already established a reputation for skillfully hunting large animals that demanded considerable prowess. However, upon his arrival, the media frenzy ignited a cascade of exaggerated and often fictitious reports. Journalists flocked to Meeker and ventured into Coyote Basin, only to return with sensationalized and incoherent stories that painted a distorted picture for the American public. This early media spectacle, unfortunately, cast an unfavorable light on Colorado's otherwise hospitable reception.

A Triumphant Expedition: Roosevelt's Remarkable Hunting Achievement

The Governor's hunting trip proved to be an resounding success from beginning to end. Over five weeks, he successfully hunted twelve mountain lions and five lynx, a remarkable feat that garnered significant admiration. Every effort was made to ensure his comfort and enjoyment, with residents from towns and cities alike, as well as the ranchers and farmers of Routt and Rio Blanco counties, extending generous hospitality. Roosevelt was accompanied by John B. Goff of Meeker, Colorado, whom the author regarded as the region's foremost guide. Goff, an exceptional sportsman with unparalleled big game hunting experience, had previously guided the author through the deer and elk country of the White River, making him the ideal companion for Roosevelt's adventure.

The Journey to the Wild: From Colorado Springs to the Keystone Ranch

Governor Roosevelt's journey began on January 10 in Colorado Springs, where he was met by P.B. Stewart and Dr. Webb. Together, they traveled by rail to Rifle, then continued by stagecoach for forty-five miles to Meeker. On January 12, they rendezvoused with their seasoned guide, John B. Goff, who promptly led them to the secluded Keystone Ranch, located twenty-seven miles from Meeker. This ranch served as their primary base for a considerable portion of the hunt. After three weeks, Dr. Webb and Mr. Stewart departed, but Roosevelt chose to remain with Goff, relocating their hunting grounds as opportunities arose until February 15. They then returned to Meeker, where Roosevelt took a stage to Rifle and a train to Colorado Springs, arriving on February 18. The following morning, he participated in a coyote hunt with local sportsmen, covering thirty-five miles without success, though three coyotes and a wolf were spotted. Despite another extensive ride of over forty miles the next day, their luck did not change. Roosevelt ultimately departed that evening on a special train from Colorado Springs to Denver, before continuing to his home in Oyster Bay, New York.

An Unconventional Encounter: A Sportsman's Heart-to-Heart on the Rails

The author counts himself among the fortunate few who had the privilege of meeting Governor Roosevelt during his time in Colorado. As Roosevelt boarded his special train in Colorado Springs on the eve of his departure, the author approached, offering a card and requesting a brief conversation. To his pleasant surprise, the porter returned with an invitation to enter. The formal introduction proved unnecessary, as Roosevelt extended a warm handshake, invited the author to sit, and immediately addressed him with the familiar tone of a fellow sportsman: "Mr. McGuire, I do not want you to be formal with me, I won't have it." Roosevelt confessed his long-standing admiration for the author's magazine, remarking on its pleasant companionship during his hunt, especially on the quieter days in the hills. He particularly lauded an article on Dall De Weese, praising him as a true sportsman and ideal hunter, and expressed regret at leaving Colorado without having met him personally.

Beyond the Interview: A Candid Conversation on Hunting and Gear

As the author prepared to take notes during their conversation, Roosevelt swiftly intervened, stating, "Please do not make this a formal interview. I detest them and would rather talk to you as one sportsman to another." The author assured him of his appreciation for the informal exchange, explaining his initial brevity was out of concern for Roosevelt's fatigue after his long hunt. However, with no such obstacle, they settled into a genuine, unhurried conversation, punctuated only by the rhythmic sounds and motions of the train. During their journey to Denver, their discussions ranged widely, covering hunting techniques, firearms, and ammunition. Roosevelt spoke highly of John Goff's daring and gentlemanly conduct, praised the hospitality of the Coloradan people, and celebrated the state's natural beauty and abundant game. At one point, he retrieved his .30/30 Winchester rifle from its leather case, proudly displaying it. The well-worn rifle, bearing several teeth marks from a close encounter with a lion, was a testament to its extensive use. Roosevelt declared it a "good gun" and confidently asserted that the .30/30 caliber was sufficiently powerful for all typical big game hunting, expressing his strong convictions on the matter.

Roosevelt's Legacy: A Hunter's Passion and Extensive Outdoor Pursuits

The author gathered a wealth of insights from Governor Roosevelt during their train ride. Though no formal notes were taken, the author endeavors to summarize the key takeaways for the readership of Outdoor Life. Roosevelt's passion for hunting and the frontier life dated back to his youth, a passion evident in his numerous published works on outdoor life, including Hunting Trips of a Ranchman and The Wilderness Hunter. Big game hunting was his favorite pastime, with a particular fondness for bear and lion pursuits. He had successfully hunted a diverse array of animals across various Western landscapes, including bear, lions, wolves, coyotes, bobcats, antelope, black and white-tailed deer, elk, sheep, and white goats—essentially all game native to temperate zones. Notably, this trip marked his first hunting expedition in Colorado.

The Quintessential Sportsman: Roosevelt's Rugged Style and Affable Demeanor

True to his adventurous spirit, Roosevelt consistently wore buckskin attire while in the wilderness and held a deep appreciation for fine horses. He possessed the riding skills of a seasoned plains cowboy and exhibited the remarkable endurance of someone accustomed to daily saddle time. All game harvested during his most recent hunt was meticulously weighed. Among the mountain lions, one weighed a substantial 227 pounds, another 164, and a third 160 pounds, representing the largest taken. The skins of all killed game were destined for expert mounting, intended to adorn Governor Roosevelt's personal den. Governor Roosevelt exuded congeniality and warmth, immediately putting those around him at ease. He disdained formality, valuing earnestness and sincerity above all else. His handshake was that of a heartfelt sportsman, and his conversations were marked by an unusual blend of friendliness and pleasantness. For the author, their meeting was one of the most delightful experiences of his life.

A Guide's Perspective: John B. Goff's Endorsement of Roosevelt's Hunting Prowess

A personal letter from John B. Goff, Governor Roosevelt's guide, penned immediately after the hunt, offers an invaluable perspective for readers of Outdoor Life. Dated February 15, 1901, from Meeker, Colorado, the letter addresses Mr. J. A. McGuire, Editor of Outdoor Life. Goff confirms Roosevelt's departure from Meeker and expresses his belief that the Governor experienced the most enjoyable hunt of his life, a pleasure he keenly shared. Goff mentions sending snapshots from the hunt and promises a full account of the trip for publication later. He details Roosevelt's successful hunting of twelve lions and five lynx, noting that four of the lions were dispatched with a knife while surrounded by dogs. Goff clarifies that this method, often sensationalized by newspapers, was a practical way to quickly dispatch animals when a gunshot would endanger the dogs. He recounts one lion as the largest ever killed in the region, measuring eight feet and weighing 227 pounds. Goff also describes their stay at the Keystone Ranch with William Wilson, and then at the Mathes ranch, where they harvested three lions and experienced true hospitality from Bob Clarence and Zack Mathes. Their journey continued to Judge Foreman's ranch, where they found comfort and kindness. Roosevelt meticulously recorded the measurements and weights of all game, ensuring he acquired some of the finest mountain lion specimens. Goff concludes by stating that among the many sportsmen he had guided, Governor Roosevelt stood out as one of the most thorough and courageous, making their five weeks together a continuous period of delight and pleasure.