At a Glance
Quick Tips
- Certified weed free hay required on National Forest
- Food storage regulations apply due to grizzly bears
species | general Size | trophy potential |
---|---|---|
Mule Deer | Dummy | Dummy |
Whitetail Deer | Dummy | Dummy |
Elk | Dummy | Dummy |
Hunt District 422 in Montana offers good hunting opportunities, particularly for those seeking to fill their freezer rather than target trophy animals. Despite the prevalence of stock trailers and outfitter activity, there remain accessible "honey holes" for those willing to hunt closer to trails rather than venturing deep into the backcountry. Fire-affected areas are mainly in the unit's south, so focusing on northern spots may be worthwhile. Access can be challenging due to private lands, but the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest can provide guidance, and hunters should also consider that harvest rates do not clearly differentiate between whitetail and mule deer or account specifically for species by hunter in their data.
species | general Size | trophy potential |
---|---|---|
Mule Deer | Dummy | Dummy |
Whitetail Deer | Dummy | Dummy |
Elk | Dummy | Dummy |
Located in the central part of the state to the southwest of Augusta. The district is comprised of a mix of private, BLM, state and Lewis and Clark National Forest lands. The National Forest has a multitude of trails and old logging roads, offering plenty of great access for horseback or the willing hiker.
This district continues to produce average mule deer, whitetail and bull elk. Elk and whitetail deer are abundant, but lack in trophy size. Recent and old burns have improved the habitat. Good archery district for all species.
This district begins at the Dearborn River and State Highway 435 on the east and spans westward through plains and broken foothills through the forest to the Continental Divide in the Lewis and Clark National Forest. Timberline occurs around 7,000 feet.
Public access to the National Forest in this district is good, with several access roads and a network of trails. Some opportunity exists on private and state land as well.
Spruce, fir and lodgepole forests dominate much of the district, giving way to alpine meadows as elevation climbs. Riparian river and creek bottoms are comprised of willow, cottonwood and aspen.
There are lots of choices for any style of hunter in this district. The towns of Augusta and nearby Great Falls offer many options for lodging, groceries, gas and other amenities. Camping is allowed on all public ground for up to 14 days in one location and most camp on the forest in any convenient location.
Roughly 485 square miles
45% public Land
Elevations from 4,100-9,200 feet
Elk Creek Road and Dearborn Canyon Road provide access to the forest
Fall Creek and Elk Creek are popular trailheads