At a Glance
Quick Tips
- Be prepared to glass long distances
- A GPS with a land status map is recommended
- BLM, Wyoming Game and Fish and Forest Service offices found in Pinedale
species | general Size | trophy potential |
---|---|---|
Elk | Dummy | Dummy |
Hunters discussing Wyoming's Area 86 - Monument Ridge have shared valuable insights and experiences that could aid prospective hunters. Generally, with a Wyoming general elk tag, one can hunt multiple units, including 86, provided you have the required archery stamp for the archery season. The unit appears popular, with hunters noting significant trailhead crowding, especially during overlapping mule deer and elk season, although sightings and opportunities for elk remain viable. Additionally, while bear encounters are not prevalent, hunters advise staying vigilant, especially with some confirmed grizzly bear sightings. The collaborative spirit is strong, with many hunters expressing willingness to share their knowledge, experiences, and even camp space, offering a supportive community for those navigating this unit.
species | general Size | trophy potential |
---|---|---|
Elk | Dummy | Dummy |
This unit is known for large elk herds and high success rates. This is a wilderness free unit, so nonresidents have access to the entire thing. There is also good county road and national forest service road access to most of the unit, yet you can still find plenty of country to get out onto your own.
This area is known for high elk numbers. Trophy bulls can be found throughout the entire area.
There are a lot of long deep canyons and high mountain peaks in the Wyoming Mountain Range. The peaks here can help give hunters a better vantage point for glassing and finding elk herds. Hunters should be in good physical condition since mountains rise quickly in elevation with rugged terrain.
The majority of the area is made up of Forest Service land with ranch lands in the east with good public access. Most roads are marked with Forest Service signs. This area can be found in Western Wyoming, north of La Barge Creek, west of the Hoback River and east of the Grays River Divide and south of Cliff Creek. ATV's, UTV's and 4-wheel drive vehicles are highly recommended in case of severe weather.
The vegetation on the western part of the unit is dominated by sage brush and prairie grass. In the mountains, hunters can expect more aspen, willows and conifers.
Most hunters will camp remotely on Forest Service land in the unit with no permit required. Motel lodging can be found east of the unit in Bondurant and south of the unit in Pinedale.
Roughly 117 square miles
96% public land
Elevations from 6,800-10,100 feet