The Best Elk Hunting Locations in North America: Where to Find Trophy Bulls

Elk hunting is one of North America's most sought-after outdoor activities, with hunters traveling from all over the world to pursue these majestic creatures. Known for their impressive antlers, large bodies, and rugged remote habitat, elk are an icon of the west. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a greenhorn, finding the best location to chase trophy bulls can be the difference between an unforgettable adventure and a missed opportunity. In this article, we'll explore some of the best elk hunting locations across the western US, where you can find bulls and experience some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world.

Colorado

Why Colorado?

Colorado is often considered the crown jewel of elk hunting in North America, and for good reasons. The state has a vast yet diverse range of habitats, ranging from rugged terrain above timberline to lower elevation consisting of pinion, juniper and

sage. Elk can even be found on the eastern plains of Colorado consisting of vast agriculture tracts, most of which is private land. Colorado has the largest population of elk of any western state, boasting a population at just under 300,000 animals. This population combined with millions of acres of public land and public access, makes Colorado an ideal destination to pursue elk. Colorado is also one of the few places where you can still buy an over-the-counter tag and go hunting every year. However, it’s worth noting that all archery elk tags in Colorado have gone to a draw, and there is a consideration that 2nd and 3rd season rifle tags will shortly follow. All things aside. I still believe Colorado will always provide more opportunities to hunt elk than any other state.

Key Areas for Trophy Elk

• San Juan Mountains: This area is famous for its steep, rugged terrain and large elk herds. The San Juans are home to some of the most sought-after elk hunting grounds in the state, with hunters regularly taking bulls with large, impressive racks.
• Flat Tops Wilderness Area: Located in the Routt National Forest, this area is a favorite among hunters due to its high elevation and thick forests. The terrain can be challenging, but it’s known for producing some of the largest bulls in the state.
• GMUs (Game Management Units): Areas like GMUs 1,2,10, 201, 40 to name a few are particularly known for large bulls, but be aware that these units require a lot of preference points to draw. These areas are heavily regulated to ensure sustainable hunting and healthy elk populations, increasing the chances of a successful hunt. Don’t despair if you have not banked a lot of points, there are many units with quality hunting that require very few hunts

Best Time to Hunt

Colorado’s elk hunting season typically begins in late September and runs through November, with the peak of the rut occurring in early late September. The rut is the time when elk are most active and vocal, making it a prime time for hunters to hear and locate bulls. If you want to chase screaming bulls in the rut you’ll need to do it with a bow or muzzleloader, however some bulls are still rutting during the first rifle season, but keep in mind these tags are limited

Montana

Why Montana?

Montana is another top contender in the elk hunting world, offering a combination of vast public lands, high-altitude terrain, and abundant elk populations. The state is home to some of the most remote and rugged landscapes in North America, including the Rocky Mountains and the Bear Paw Mountains, making it an ideal location for hunters seeking adventure in the wilderness.

Key Areas for Trophy Elk

• Bob Marshall Wilderness: Often referred to as the "Switzerland of the Rockies," the Bob Marshall Wilderness Area is one of the largest and most rugged wilderness areas in the U.S. It’s known for producing large elk, particularly during the rut when elk are more vocal and easier to locate.
  
• Gallatin National Forest: Located near Yellowstone National Park, Gallatin is home to some of Montana’s largest elk herds. The forest features a mix of alpine meadows, dense timber, and rugged ridges, providing a variety of hunting opportunities.
• Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness: If you’re looking for a challenge, the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness offers some of the most remote hunting areas in Montana. The terrain is tough, but the reward is often a large, trophy bull.

Best Time to Hunt

Montana’s elk season runs from late September through mid-November, with the peak of the rut occurring in mid-to-late September. This is the best time to hunt, as bulls are actively seeking cows and can be easier to call in or locate.

Wyoming

Why Wyoming?

Wyoming is known for its wide-open spaces and large elk herds, making it a favorite among both experienced and novice hunters. The state is home to some of the largest elk populations in the U.S., and hunters can expect to encounter elk

in a variety of terrains, from the rolling hills of the Great Plains to the high peaks of the Teton Range.

Key Areas for Trophy Elk

• National Elk Refuge: Located near Jackson Hole, Wyoming, the National Elk Refuge is home to thousands of elk, many of which are trophy bulls. While hunting within the refuge is limited, it’s a prime spot to scout elk during the off-season.
• Shoshone National Forest: Located near Yellowstone National Park, Shoshone offers vast wilderness areas where hunters can pursue elk in remote, rugged terrain. This area is known for large, mature bulls, and the hunting pressure here is relatively low compared to more accessible areas.
• Medicine Bow National Forest: Situated in the southeastern part of the state, this forest offers a mix of forests, sagebrush, and high ridges, providing an ideal habitat for elk. Hunters here often take large bulls, and the area offers good access to public lands.

Best Time to Hunt

Wyoming’s elk hunting season typically starts in mid-September and runs through November. Like other states, the rut peaks around early October, but elk can be found throughout the season, particularly in the higher elevations as the weather cools.

Idaho

Why Idaho?

Idaho is home to some of the most diverse elk habitats in the U.S., ranging from the steep slopes of the Sawtooth Mountains to the rolling hills of the Clearwater Basin. The state boasts a significant elk population, with many herds residing in

remote areas that are less crowded with hunters. Idaho is famous for producing large bulls, particularly in areas that are tough to access.

Key Areas for Trophy Elk

• Sawtooth Wilderness Area: The Sawtooth Mountains are home to some of Idaho’s most challenging and rewarding elk hunting terrain. The rugged mountains and alpine meadows provide a perfect habitat for large elk herds, and hunters who are willing to put in the effort often find success.
• Clearwater Basin: The Clearwater region, with its dense forests and river valleys, is home to large elk herds. This area is less trafficked by hunters, giving those who venture into its deep timber a better chance at bagging a
  trophy bull.
• Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest: Located in northern Idaho, this vast forest system offers a mix of rugged mountains and lush valleys. It’s known for producing large bulls, particularly in the fall when elk congregate in the lower valleys.

Best Time to Hunt

Idaho’s elk season runs from late September to November, with the peak of the rut occurring in late September to early October. During this time, elk are often more vocal and active, making it an excellent time to call and hunt.

New Mexico

Why New Mexico?

New Mexico may not have as large an elk population as Colorado or Montana, but it’s a sleeper destination for trophy elk hunters. The state offers some of the best opportunities for bagging a truly giant bull, thanks to its varied landscapes, abundant public land, and well-regulated hunting zones.

Key Areas for Trophy Elk

• Gila National Forest: The Gila is one of the most famous elk hunting locations in the U.S. Known for its rugged terrain and high elk density, the forest offers hunters the chance to pursue trophy bulls in an incredibly scenic and remote environment. The Gila also offers a mix of open meadows and dense forests, perfect for both spot-and-stalk and calling techniques.
• Santa Fe National Forest: The Santa Fe National Forest in central New Mexico is another prime elk hunting location, particularly in the Valles Caldera National Preserve. The area is known for its abundant elk herds, and hunters can often find large bulls roaming the valleys and high ridges.
• Carson National Forest: Located in northern New Mexico, this area provides access to vast wilderness areas and has a reputation for producing large, trophy-class bulls.

Best Time to Hunt

New Mexico’s elk season runs from mid-September through mid-November, with the rut peaking in late September to early October. Because New Mexico has a limited number of tags and a lottery system, securing a hunt in this state is more competitive, but the reward can be immense.

Conclusion

Note, I did not mention states like my home state of Utah, and neighboring Nevada and Arizona because unless you have been playing the points game for well over a decade the states mentioned in this article provide much better opportunities that are in reach of most hunters. In the event you do draw a tag in the states mentioned above you are in for the hunt of a lifetime. Regardless of the location you decide to hunt elk, elk hunting is one of the most exhilarating and challenging experiences a hunter can have. It isn’t easy, but effort and research can pay off with a freezer full of delicious protein, a beautiful set of antlers and memories to last a lifetime.