West Bitterroot unit lies southwest of Missoula, between the Bitterroot River and the Idaho state line. The Selway Bitterroot Wilderness Area makes up more than half of the area. It is a pristine and rugged land lying within Bitterroot National Forest, offering thousands of acres of public land. The Bitterroot Range is difficult to reach and travel through and should be considered extremely remote. Only residents can draw for an antlered bull limited license.

One 168” Boone and Crockett bull is listed in the record book with no other listings entered from Ravalli County. Extreme terrain and a present wolf population make this a challenging hunt. The majority of land in the Bitterroot Valley is private, so get permission well before the season opens. Snow in the mountains may drive bulls into the canyons and towards the river valley so plan to spend time in the lower elevations during November.

The steep and rocky peaks along the Bitterroot Range reach elevations over 9,000 feet. The peaks and alpine basins are very difficult to access. Snowmelt is carried away through v-shaped canyons, by many creeks that lead to the formidable Bitterroot River. Lake Como, just north of Darby, is the largest lake in the unit. The Bitterroot River Valley has irrigated agricultural land that quickly rises into sharp ridges and deep valleys.

Alpine areas are dotted with small lakes, surrounded by open meadows covered with wildflowers, some willow and moss. Talus slopes hold small clusters of grass and lichen-covered rocks. Below the tree line are steep forests of pine, spruce and fir. Mountain shrubs, pine, groves of aspen, and open meadows are scattered along ridges and creeks. Cottonwood, pine and willows line creek bottoms leading to the Bitterroot River.

Montana Route 93 travels along the eastern edge, connecting to numerous county roads that lead to a maintained system of Forest Service roads and trails. Trailheads into the Selway Bitterroot Wilderness Area are also reached from Forest Service roads. Roads and trails may become impassable during periods of heavy snow. Four-wheel drive with chains or a winch is recommended during late October into November, during snowstorms.

Bitterroot National Forest offers developed and dispersed camping with some campgrounds staying open until December to accommodate late season hunters. Camping is limited to 14 days at developed campgrounds. Along Montana Route 93, the towns of Hamilton, Darby and Stevensville offer a limited amount of lodging, café and restaurants, medical facilities, gas and diesel. Missoula, to the north of the unit, has a regional center, many choices in hotels, a medical center, a regional airport, many cafés and restaurants, and 24/7 gas and diesel.