Elk Size Guide
Elk are among the largest land mammals in North America, and understanding their size is crucial for any hunter preparing for the field. In this comprehensive elk size guide, we break down everything you need to know about elk height, weight, and antlers. Whether you’re new to elk hunting or looking to size up your next trophy, this guide covers it all.
Quick Stats: Elk Size Overview
Calves: Born at around 30–40 lbs. By fall, they can reach 250–300 lbs.
Cows (Females): Average 500–600 lbs, with a height of 4.5 feet at the shoulder.
Bulls (Males): Average 700–800 lbs, but can reach 1,000+ lbs. Height averages 5 feet at the shoulder, with a body length of up to 8 feet.
Why Elk Size Matters
For hunters, knowing an elk’s size isn’t just trivia—it impacts every aspect of the hunt. Larger animals mean more meat, a more challenging pack-out, and greater scoring potential. Size also plays into antler development, maturity, and even habitat behavior.
Elk Size by Subspecies
Rocky Mountain Elk: The most widespread; bulls typically weigh 700-800 lbs, cows 500-600 lbs.
Roosevelt Elk: Found in the Pacific Northwest; bulls can exceed 900 lbs, cows 600 lbs or more.
Tule Elk: Native to California; the smallest subspecies. Bulls average 400-500 lbs, cows around 300 lbs.Elk
Elk vs. Other Game Animals
Whitetail Deer: A mature elk bull is 2-3 times heavier and stands 1-2 feet taller at the shoulder than a deer.
Moose: Elk are massive, but moose are bigger. A bull moose can weigh over 1,200 lbs and stand 6-7 feet tall.
Mule Deer: Slightly larger than whitetail, but still dwarfed by a full-grown elk.
Understanding Antler Size
Only bulls grow antlers, which are shed and regrown each year:
Yearlings: Typically sport spike antlers.
2-3 Years: Start growing branches or points.
4-6 Years: Antlers become broader and more symmetrical, often 5x5 or 6x6.
7+ Years: Prime antler growth. Trophy bulls can have racks that span 4+ feet and weigh up to 40 lbs.
Antlers are measured using the Boone and Crockett scoring system, which considers tine length, beam length, and spread..
Seasonal & Regional Factors
Elk often reach their heaviest weight in late summer before the rut and winter cause weight loss. Lush habitats like the Pacific Northwest produce larger elk due to better nutrition, while elk in harsher or arid environments may be smaller.
Record-Breaking Bulls
The largest wild elk on record exceeded 1,200 lbs.
Some Boone & Crockett scored bulls have reached over 430 points.
At Broadmouth Canyon Ranch, we routinely harvest bulls in the 400+ class, showcasing just how massive these animals can get in managed environments.
At Broadmouth Canyon Ranch, we offer a variety of elk hunts that cater to different hunting goals and preferences:
Management Elk: Management bulls are mature bulls discounted for genetic purposes. These hunts are a good choice for those looking to experience elk hunting with a more accessible price point.
Trophy Elk: Trophy elk hunts are for bulls up to 330". This hunt is for those aiming to bring home a trophy that showcases the beauty of mature elk.
Upgrade Elk: Upgrade elk hunts are for bulls from 330"-360". These hunts offer a unique opportunity for hunters seeking larger, more impressive bulls.
Each year at our ranch, we proudly harvest some of the biggest elk in the world, providing unforgettable elk hunt experiences for all our hunters.
How to Use This Guide
For all those who want to go hunting, this guide is meant to help you:
Prepare: Knowing the size of the elk can help you choose the right equipment.
Respect Wildlife: Understanding more about elk helps promote respectful and sustainable hunting practices.
Elk are majestic, powerful, and impressive in both size and stature. Whether you're trying to estimate weight in the field or planning your next trophy hunt, understanding elk size is key to preparation and success. Bookmark this guide and refer back as you plan your next encounter with North America’s wild giants. Every hunt is an opportunity to connect with nature and learn more about these amazing creatures. Be safe, respect the wildlife, and happy hunting!
