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Elk Hunting is a thrilling recreational activity enjoyed by outdoorsmen around the world. Elk, which are among the largest of deer species, have impressive antlers that often weigh up to forty pounds and may measure six feet in span. Check out our list of Elk hunting locations you’ll want to hunt ASAP!
As elk must be tracked and harvested in rugged terrain, often challenged by changing weather conditions, elk hunting provides an adventurous experience testing hunters’ skills, stamina, and dedication while exploring the wilderness.
While elk hunting is a fun sport, its highly advisable that beginner hunters have experiences sportsmen with them on their hunt. Elk are big, heavy animals and the hunt is just the beginning of the work. Most of the work begins after bagging an elk.
Elk Hunting Locations
The best place to hunt elk isn’t hard to imagine. Elk hunting is a thrilling experience that combines the adrenaline rush of the hunt with the beauty and serenity of the great outdoors.
With its abundance of wildlife and diverse terrain, elk hunting can be enjoyed in a number of excellent locations across North America.
From Colorado’s mountain ranges to Montana’s prairies, there are plenty of prime locations for elk hunting enthusiasts to discover.
No matter where you go though, even in your own neck of the woods, it’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience!
Wyoming Elk Hunting Locations
Elk hunting in Wyoming is an unforgettable experience that should be on every hunter’s bucket list. With its stunning natural landscapes, abundant wildlife, and challenging terrain,
Areas around Yellowstone National Park and Togwotee Pass offer some of the best elk hunting opportunities in the world.
Picture yourself in the middle of a forest, surrounded by mountains, with a giant bull elk in your sights.
The adrenaline rush as you take aim and the satisfaction of a successful hunt make it all worthwhile.
Whether you prefer the excitement of a spot-and-stalk hunt or the patience of a blind, elk hunting in Wyoming is an adventure you won’t soon forget.
Yellowstone National Park Area
Wyoming offers breathtaking landscapes and multiple elk hunting spots. Though you can’t hunt inside Yellowstone National Park, you can seek out the Roosevelt bull elk throughout the park’s various areas, for an unforgettable and rewarding experience.
Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872, is the world’s first and most iconic national park. Spanning 2.2 million acres across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho.
The park offers a plethora of wildlife experiences. Visitors can spot grizzly bears, wolves, bison, elk, moose and many other animals roaming through this pristine wilderness.
Yellowstone National Park is a quite extraordinary place known for its incredible geothermal features such as its active volcanoes, geysers, hot springs and mud pots.
The park is situated on the Yellowstone Caldera, which is an active super volcano last erupted 640,000 years ago. With over 10,000 thermal features in total, The Park contains one of the largest active hydrothermal systems in our world today.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, Yellowstone National Park covers nearly 3,500 square miles of remarkable wilderness and offers a range of picturesque landscapes, from open meadows to towering mountains.
Home to countless species of wildlife and unique geological features, the park continues to attract visitors from around the world who come to explore its many wonders and delve into Mother Nature’s greatest masterpiece.
Hunting elk in neighboring areas around Wyoming’s Yellowstone National Park is a gift, a pleasure, and an all around world class amazing experience.
Check out Dome Mountain Ranch for some of the most prime hunting just 20 miles from Yellowstone National Park!
Togwotee Pass
Togwotee Pass in Wyoming is a popular spot for elk hunters and offers an incredible view of craggy peaks with streams perfect for spotting elk.
Be aware that this area is located deep in wilderness, so be prepared with all necessary supplies and equipment before embarking on your journey.
The Pass offers scores of outdoor opportunities, especially in winter. Seemingly endless fresh snow and terrain that ranges from gentle slopes to steep ravines make this area an irresistible destination for snowmobilers, backcountry skiers, and snowshoers alike.
Togwotee is a high mountain pass located on the Continental Divide in Wyoming. This iconic line of high points and ridges divides the watersheds that flow into either the Atlantic or Pacific Ocean.
This a prime location for hunters, offering easy access to the many wild areas located east and west of the divide.
With 500 inches of snow annually on average, Togwotee Pass is primed for those who seek thrills and the challenge of nature.
Located in the Bridger-Teton and Shoshone national forests, Togwotee Pass is a beautiful area boasting spectacular views at an elevation of 9,658 feet.
As well as being a serene, picturesque landscape, it’s also surprisingly abundant with wildlife – including moose, grizzly bears and elk.
Hunters drawn to the area will enjoy the thrill of pursuing these beautiful elk on the slopes of Togwotee pass! Check out these live webcams to see if you can spot an elk roaming!
Utah Elk Hunting Locations
Elk hunting in Utah is a thrilling adventure that will stay with you forever. The Flaming Gorge and Book Cliffs regions are particularly popular areas to hunt these incredible creatures.
With stunning landscapes and an abundance of elk, the adrenaline rush from hearing their bugles in the distance and knowing you’re in for a chase is incomparable.
Whether you’re an experienced hunter or hunting for the first time, elk hunting in Utah promises an unforgettable experience.
So pack your gear, head to Flaming Gorge or Book Cliffs, and get ready for the hunt of a lifetime!
Flaming Gorge in Utah
If you’re looking for an elk hunting spot that is suitable for all skill levels and offers a variety of terrains and environments, head to Flaming Gorge in Utah.
This area is home to both Rocky Mountain and Roosevelt bull elk, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to experience the thrill of hunting within its natural landscape.
Utilize vantage points along the top of mesas or canyons in order to get the most out of your elk hunting adventure!
The state’s Rocky Mountain elk population is managed by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, who value sustainability and prevent overhunting.
Every year during the elk hunting season, hunters can apply for permits through a lottery system.
Book Cliffs
Utah is a popular destination for hunters in search of large trophy elk. The largest elk ever harvested in this state was a bull elk that weighed over 1,000 pounds and was taken in 2008 from the Book Cliffs area of northeastern Utah.
This region is renowned for its many trophy-sized elk and provides those who venture out an exciting hunting challenge!
If you’re looking for an exciting hunting experience, then elk hunting in Utah is a great choice. You’ll face steep, rugged terrain, extreme weather conditions and high elevations in many areas of the state.
A successful elk hunter needs endurance, skill and determination to scout out the best hunting spots and pursue their prey through the wilderness.
It’s a physically demanding hunt that will test your limits – but it could also be extremely rewarding!
Colorado Elk Hunting Locations
If you’re looking for a great elk hunting spot with breathtaking mountain scenery, visit Colorado. The state is home to approximately 500,000 elk, the highest concentration in North America.
Western Colorado has high-altitude plateaus abundant with mule deer and elk herds like those found in Grand Mesa National Forest and San Juan Mountains—perfect terrain for stalking or stand-alone elk hunting.
Its clear lakes and numerous rivers offer fly fishing anglers a fishing experience second-to-none!
Grand Mesa National Forest
Grand Mesa National Forest in Colorado is a mecca for elk hunters. At over 800 square miles, the terrain of this forest provides an abundance of diverse habitats perfect for these amazing animals.
From high mountain peaks, to dense forests, and wide open meadows – this area provides ideal conditions for elk to live and thrive. Hunting these stunning creatures in Grand Mesa National Forest is truly an experience of a lifetime!
Colorado’s Grand Mesa National Forest is a paradise for elk hunters, offering some of the most beautiful trophy bull elk hunting opportunities in the United States.
Each year, hundreds of hunters apply for permits to hunt within the forest’s boundaries through a lottery system.
The U.S. Forest Service manages this area, providing balance between recreational activities and wildlife conservation.
San Juan Mountains in Colorado
Elk hunting in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains has long been a favorite pastime for outdoor enthusiasts.
The picturesque range encompasses everything from high mountains peaks, deep canyons and lush forests that serve as the perfect habitat – and challenge – to those seeking a successful elk hunt.
Locals know that the San Juan Mountains are an ideal spot to pursue these beautiful animals.
Elk stalking and harvesting in this area can reward hunters with a successful hunt and the chance to bag a record-breaking elk, with bulls weighing up to 800 pounds or more, boasting impressive antlers.
Experienced hunters will enjoy their time in the mountains while taking down a trophy catch.
Colorado’s San Juan mountains are well known for their elk hunting opportunities, but there is much more to be enjoyed. From excellent hiking trails and camping spots, to abundant wildlife and incredible scenic drives.
This area offers everything a nature lover could want.
Aside from nature, history enthusiasts will also be delighted with the abundance of old mining towns and ghost towns that provide an insight into the state’s past.
New Mexico Elk Hunting Locations
Every devoted hunter would relish the opportunity to go elk hunting in New Mexico.
New Mexico provides some of the best elk hunting opportunities in the nation due to its varied topography and variety of wildlife.
To assist you in organizing your upcoming hunting trip, this blog post will investigate the state’s top hunting spots.
Gila National Forest
The Gila National Forest is one of New Mexico’s most well-liked elk hunting locations. Some of the most tough and rewarding hunting opportunities in the state can be found in this large wilderness area.
It is the perfect place for trophy elk hunting due to the rough terrain and dense woodlands. Discover more recreational information about Galia National Forest on the Forest Service website.
Valles Caldera National Preserve
The Valles Caldera National Preserve is another another fantastic elk hunting area in New Mexico.
With its open grasslands, meadows, and ponderosa pine forests, this lovely park provides a distinctive hunting experience.
Elk are a common sight in the preserve, making it a great place for hunters seeking a challenge. You can also find loads of information about other activities to do while at Valles Caldera on the National Parks Service website.
Carson National Forest
The Carson National Forest in northern New Mexico is a terrific option if you’re searching for a more isolated and secluded hunting experience.
Elk can be found in good numbers in the forested mountains and high alpine meadows, and the area’s isolation guarantees a genuine wilderness hunting experience.
There are also plenty of campgrounds in the area as well as skiing, views, prehistoric ruins, ice caves, lava flows, and some of the best trout fishing in New Mexico. Check out the USDA Forest Service website for more info.
It doesn’t matter where you go elk hunting in New Mexico is a memorable experience. The state has some of the best hunting chances in the nation thanks to its stunning scenery, varied topography, and a variety of species.
So gather your hunting supplies, prepare your travel plans, and depart for New Mexico!
Elk Hunting Locations in Montana
Montana is a popular destination for elk hunting enthusiasts due to its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Dedicated hunters who venture into the Bob Marshall Wilderness Area or Beartooth Ranger District can expect incredible scenery, from towering mountains to sprawling meadows and crystal-clear streams.
The ultimate thrill of stalking elk in these natural habitats is one that cannot be matched, and the sense of accomplishment when successful is indescribable.
Whether an experienced hunter or a first-timer, visitors to Montana will create lasting memories while seeking their trophy-sized elk with careful preparation and a bit of luck.
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!
Beartooth Ranger District
Step into the Beartooth Ranger District of Montana and find a hunt that will take you to higher elevations. Enjoy the rolling plains, crystal clear pools and open forests with an opportunity to see plenty of elk in the mix.
You’ll also run into Mule Deer and Mountain Goats. The scenery here is unrivaled, taking in mountain vistas for miles around with thrilling outdoor experiences enough to quench any wild!
This area is renowned for its stunning mountain peaks, lush forests and beautiful alpine meadows – all of which are home to a healthy population of Rocky Mountain elk.
Hunters from far and wide come to this district to take advantage of the great opportunities it offers for elk hunting!
Montana’s Beartooth Ranger District offers avid elk hunters the chance to pursue trophy-sized bull elk in the fall. Hunting is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, who are dedicated to maintaining a balance between recreation and environment conservation.
Prospective hunters must first apply for a permit via a lottery system in order to access the area.
If you’re up for an adventure, hunting Elk in the Beartooth Ranger district of Montana might be just the challenge you’re looking for! This mountainous terrain and unpredictable weather can give even experienced hunters a good run.
But those who brave the elements could also be rewarded with stunning views, abundant wildlife, and the satisfaction of hunting a beautiful elk.
As an added bonus, the Beartooth Ranger district offers a host of other recreational activities like hiking, camping, fishing and wildlife viewing.
Bob Marshall Wilderness Area
Boasting an impressive 1,009,356 acres of arguably the most beautiful land in Montana. Bob Marshall Wilderness Area, more commonly knows as “The Bob” is a rugged paradise that has long been sought after by outdoor adventurers and hunters alike.
Featuring a remarkably healthy elk population and remote unforgiving landscape, The Bob offers visitors a truly unforgettable and challenging experience.
The Bob Marshall Wilderness Area, one of the largest and most scenic protected areas in the United States, is a coveted destination for elk hunters. Check out the Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation as well.
The area is named after conservationist Bob Marshall who pushed for wilderness legislation such as the 1964 Wildlife Act.
The Bob Marshall Wilderness Area is home to numerous species of wildlife, including grizzly bears, mountain lions and bighorn sheep – all of which make excellent hunting targets.
Elk hunting in the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex of Montana can offer a thrilling adventure for those seeking a trophy-sized bull.
During the fall season, one must apply through a lottery system for permits to hunt in the region.
The terrain is challenging, and hunters must also be prepared to deal with unpredictable weather.
Aside from hunting, visitors can partake in many other outdoor activities such as fly fishing for cutthroat trout, camping, and wildlife viewing.
Idaho Elk Hunting Locations
Elk hunting is a beloved activity for many outdoor enthusiasts in Idaho due to its wide-open spaces and rugged landscapes.
With a population of over 100,000 elk in the state, Idaho boasts some of the best hunting opportunities in the country.
From the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness to the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness and Sawtooth Wilderness areas, hunters can find prime locations to bag that trophy bull they’ve been dreaming of.
Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness
Elk hunting in Idaho’s Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness is an unforgettable experience. The Park’s beautiful alpine meadows and steep mountain slopes are excellent habitats for elk.
The Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness in Idaho is a prime destination for those seeking the ultimate hunting experience.
Elk hunting in this expansive wilderness area, spanning over 2 million acres, offers hunters a chance to navigate through rugged terrain featuring towering peaks and deep canyons.
Hunters must be prepared for a challenging adventure as they track elk amidst rushing rivers and remote surroundings. The Frank Church wilderness provides a thrilling opportunity for those in search of the ultimate elk hunting expedition.
Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness in Idaho is an ideal destination for elk hunting, thanks to its breathtaking natural beauty and abundant wildlife.
Not to mention, it boasts one of the most robust populations of elk in the United States, with many impressive bulls showcasing their antlers.
Elk hunting here is a challenging and unforgettable experience that requires seasoned hunters to track and stalk their prey in rugged terrain.
Even first-time hunters will cherish the memories made while elk hunting in Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness for years to come.
Aside from Frank Church, the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness also proves to be a great place to hunt due to its dense forests.
Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness
Idaho’s Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness is a natural wonderland that spans over 1.3 million acres of pristine wilderness, making it an ideal hunting spot for elk enthusiasts.
The rugged terrain and untamed habitat provide the perfect setting for a challenging and rewarding hunting experience.
It’s no surprise that this breathtaking region has become a favorite destination for hunters seeking the thrill of the chase amidst unparalleled natural beauty.
If you’re up for a challenge and love the thrill of the hunt, then elk hunting in Idaho’s Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness might be just what you’re looking for.
This area is known for its rugged terrain, with thick forests and steep mountains providing the perfect habitat for elk.
As you stalk through the wilderness or survey the landscape from above, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty – an unforgettable experience that any adventurous hunter won’t want to miss!
The Sawtooth Wilderness is also a hot ticket place for elk hunting in Idaho with its higher elevations and lower valleys provide hunters with plenty of opportunities during early and late seasons.
Idaho is a popular destination for elk hunting enthusiasts, boasting a number of outfitters and guides who can assist with the planning and execution of hunting trips.
With diverse terrain and wildlife populations, Idaho offers an unparalleled experience for seasoned hunters as well as those seeking their first elk.
Whether you’re looking to test your skills or simply enjoy the thrill of the hunt in a beautiful natural setting, Idaho has something to offer every elk hunter.
Aside from Frank Church, the Sawtooth wilderness also proves to be a great and challenging place to hunt with rugged terrain.
Sawtooth Wilderness Area
Nestled in the heart of Idaho lies the Sawtooth Wilderness, a haven for avid elk hunters. Boasting acres upon acres of rugged terrain and pristine wilderness, this premier destination provides hunters with an unforgettable experience pursuing these magnificent creatures.
As you navigate through this expansive area, take time to appreciate the breathtaking scenery and explore the abundance of other wildlife that call Sawtooth their home.
Sawtooth Wilderness in Idaho is home to a thriving population of elk, making it a popular destination for hunters.
With its challenging terrain and dense vegetation, the area poses a challenge for even the most skilled hunters.
But with that challenge comes great reward – spotting herds of huge elk and bagging a mature bull can be an unforgettable experience. Check the BLM website for loads of information about planning your trip.
Whether you’re an experienced hunter or just starting out, Sawtooth Wilderness offers plenty of opportunities for an exciting and fulfilling hunting trip.
Kentucky Elk Hunting Locations
Kentucky has emerged as one of the best locations for elk hunting in the United States.
With an impressive population of elks, beautiful forests and open fields, and rugged terrain, Kentucky offers a unique and exciting hunting experience that draws hunters from all over the country.
Over the years, successful conservation efforts have resulted in substantial growth of elk populations in the state thereby transforming Kentucky into a preferred destination for hunters seeking a challenging hunting adventure.
Kentucky is a well-known elk hunting location. The Elk Zone, which includes multiple counties in the southeastern portion of the state, is among the best elk hunting locations in Kentucky.
It’s home to the largest concentration of elk in Kentucky, with its terrain being ideal for hunters who prefer spot-and-stalk technique.
Additionally, Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is another location that cannot be missed.
Hunting here ensures a unique experience that sets it apart from other options due to vast open spaces and distinct features offered exclusively at this location.
The Elk Zone
Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of eastern Kentucky lies the Elk Zone, a prime destination for elk hunting enthusiasts. Boasting vast stretches of forests, rolling hills and varied terrain, the area provides a perfect habitat for elk.
Hunters can expect to have a thrilling experience as they encounter significant numbers of elk and immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty.
Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, the Elk Zone promises some of the best hunting experiences in Kentucky!
Score loads of up-to-date information about The Elk Zone on the Ky Fish & Wildlife website.
Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area
If you’re a hunting enthusiast in Kentucky, the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is a must-visit location.
The area boasts a scenic and varied landscape that provides the perfect setting for different hunting styles. Whether you prefer bow hunting or rifle hunting, you’ll find ample opportunities to test your skills here.
Additionally, this western Kentucky region has a rich wildlife population that includes elk, turkeys and white-tailed deer, all of which make for an exciting hunting experience.
All these factors make Land Between the Lakes one of the most popular locations for hunters in Kentucky!
Kentucky offers some of the best elk hunting experiences in the United States. The beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife provide a unique and exciting environment for hunters of all skill levels.
Novice hunters can join experienced guides to learn new techniques and tips, while seasoned hunters can put their skills to the test in challenging terrain.
This place is also great for other outdoor activities and is also know for their great Turkey Hunting. Check out this National Forest Service website for all the info you need to plan you trip.
Overall, Kentucky’s reputation as a hunter’s paradise is well deserved, making it an unbeatable destination for those seeking unforgettable hunting adventures.
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Elk Hunting Locations: Final Thoughts
Elk hunting is a thrilling outdoor pursuit that takes place in many remote and scenic areas of the United States, particularly in the western states which are home to flourishing populations of Rocky Mountain elks.
Head to the Togwotee Pass in Wyoming, San Juan Mountains in Colorado, Beartooth Ranger District in Montana, or the Bob Marshall Wilderness Area for some highly rewarding elk hunting experiences.
The great outdoors provide many more recreational activities like camping, fishing and wildlife viewing besides hunting – making these locations suitable for even novice hunters looking for a memorable adventure!
One thing to keep in mind is, some of these hunts are done by lottery. You’ll have to enter a pool and see if your name gets drawn! Good luck and happy hunting!
Lastly, practice your long range shooting, you’re going to need it!
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