Best Places for Hunting Elk

Header image for best places for hunting showing a man holding a 12 point elk on a grassy mountain.

Elk hunting is a popular activity for many people who love the outdoors and enjoy a good challenge. The United States has several great places where you can go elk hunting, but some spots are especially famous for their large elk populations and beautiful scenery. Here, we'll look at some of the top states for elk hunting, including Utah, Idaho, and others, and discuss what makes each place special.

1. Utah

Utah is known for its high mountains and diverse landscapes, which provide perfect habitats for elk. Areas like the Wasatch-Cache National Forest offer hunters large areas to explore and hunt. In Utah, guided hunts are a popular choice because they can help especially those who might be new to the area or to elk hunting in general. Hunting on a private ranch like ours increases your success rate as well as the opportunity for finding larger elk than you will usually see in the wild

2. Idaho

Idaho is another top destination for elk hunters because it has one of the biggest elk populations in the country. The state's vast wilderness areas, offer hunters a chance to experience hunting in remote and wild settings. In Idaho, guided elk hunts are also recommended as they provide access to areas where there are more elk and less interference from other hunters.

3. Colorado

Colorado has the largest number of elk in the world with a population of over 280,000, and it's a favorite among hunters looking for a successful hunt. The state’s Rocky Mountains and various plateaus are home to thriving elk populations. Hunters in Colorado can enjoy the natural beauty while they hunt for trophy-sized elk.

4. Montana

Montana's wide-open skies and varied landscapes make it an ideal place for elk hunting. Places like the Bob Marshall Wilderness offer hunters a mix of mountains and valleys filled with elk. Montana is perfect for those who enjoy a more rugged and natural hunting experience.

5. Oregon

Oregon is unique because it's home to the Roosevelt elk, a bigger and darker type found mostly along the Pacific coast. The dense forests and steep hills in Oregon make elk hunting challenging but also very rewarding, especially for more experienced hunters.

Why Choose a Guided Hunt?

Choosing a guided hunt can really make your elk hunting trip better, especially in places like Utah and Idaho where our guides along with our ranches will guarantee you have an unmatched experience. Guided hunts help you:

  • Learn from experts who know all about elk and their habits.

  • Have a higher chance of finding and harvesting an elk.

  • Get access to private lands where there are fewer other hunters.

Conclusion

Whether you’re drawn to the high peaks of Utah, the vast forests of Idaho, or the unique hunting grounds in Oregon, these states offer some of the best elk hunting experiences in the U.S. Each state provides its own unique challenges and opportunities, making every hunting trip an exciting adventure.

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