The Northwestern zone is located in the northwest corner of the state from the Oregon border near Crescent City south along the Pacific Coastline to near Shelter Cove. This zone includes portions of the Six Rivers National Forest in the north, a few State and National Redwood parks, a few swaths of BLM land, tribal land, and plenty of private land in the south half. Big elk may reside on private land; be open to considering outfitters with guided hunts.

A very small number of elk occur on rugged public land within the hunt area, but most occur on private property. Hunter success on public land is very low. Trespass fees for access to private land can be spendy, IF you can find some and IF they are willing to allow it.

The terrain is very steep and rugged and vegetation can be extremely dense. As with all of the mountains in the lush B zone, heavy rainfall over the history of the mountain range has eroded much of his area creating steep mountain ranges.

This zone contains a mixture of both public and private lands. Remember you must obtain and have in your possession written permission to hunt on private property. Hunter trespass laws are strictly enforced. Public lands within the zone are administered by the Six Rivers National Forests and the Bureau of Land Management.

Primary roadways are State Highway 101, State Highway 96, State Highway 199, State Highway 36 and Highway 162. Many County, USFS and BLM roads branch off of these primary roadways providing access to public lands.

There is a potential for fire due to the high fuel loading and lightning events that occur in this zone. Check with the US Forest Service for the most up to date news on closures. Be aware that tags will not be reissued due to fire closures.

The weather in this region is highly variable so be prepared. The weather is usually quite hot and dry away from the coast, but early thunderstorms are common. Coastal areas will be cooler and damp with more chance of precipitation in October. Hunting success will likely be limited in hot and dry years.

Contact the USFS or BLM regarding camping on their ownership. Public campgrounds also exist within local State and National Parks, but they should be consulted regarding restrictions on firearms and the possession of game. Numerous private campgrounds open to hunters also exist within the area.

Camping outside of designated campgrounds is usually permitted on BLM and USFS lands, however, during fire season special regulations may apply and it will be necessary to obtain a fire permit from the USFS or BLM. There are state parks along the coast where camping is also possible, but check to make sure they remain open when you go.