Quick Tips
- You need to be in good physical condition
- Bring good optics and good quality clothing that can withstand the elements
- Always pack bear spray as you are in grizzly country
- Some of the mountain lakes provide good fishing opportunities
On The Ground
This district lies just north of Yellowstone National Park. The majority of this district is in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness where most of the mountain goats in this area are found. This is extremely steep, rough mountainous country, but also very spectacular scenery. There is no better place when the weather is good than the high country.
This district has historically been a consistent producer of good quality goats. Billies in the 9” range are available in this district and an occasional larger billy can be found. Goat populations are down from historic highs, but are stable and doing well.
Terrain
This area is extremely steep and rocky with peaks to 10,800 feet. Most of the goat hunting will be done at and above timberline. Elevation gains of 3,000 to 4,000 feet can be a daily experience. Some of the mountain peaks are sheer rock faces that are unhuntable. The creek bottoms have timber and water.
Roughly 504 square miles
87.7% public land
Elevations from 6,000-10,800 feet
Vegetation
The creek bottoms have spruce, fir and pine trees. Most of the timber is getting scarce by mid elevation and it turns to sub-alpine grasses and forbs with a mix of sub alpine fir and Whitebark pine. The upper elevations are mostly rocky ridges and sheer rock mountain faces, with pockets of alpine plants, moss and lichens.
Access
There is good access into this district from Mill Creek on the west, Bear Creek on the south and the Boulder River on the east. Access can be achieved by backpacking or horsebacking into the wilderness area. These are relatively good maintained Forest Service trails. Later in the season snow can make it difficult to access this district.
ATVs are not allowed in the wilderness areas
Camping and Lodging
There are excellent camping spots that have water, firewood and protection. Most spots provide glassing of goats from camp. There are a couple of lakes that have fish in them in the heart of the goat country, so throw your pole in.
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