At a Glance
Quick Tips
- Be in good physical condition
- A GPS with a land status map is recommended
- BLM, Wyoming Game and Fish and Forest Service offices located in Pinedale
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Elk | Dummy | Dummy |


Hunters discussing Wyoming's Area 87, Raspberry Ridge, highlight its challenging, rugged terrain, which requires both physical preparedness and strategic planning for successful hunts. The area is noted for its strong elk populations, but hunters advise paying keen attention to the varying elevations and dense vegetation, which can affect game movement. Many recommend prioritizing scouting trips to familiarize oneself with potential access points and popular game trails to improve hunting odds during the season. Overall, insights emphasize the importance of patience, perseverance, and adaptability in navigating this area's unique landscape effectively.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Elk | Dummy | Dummy |
There has been a reduction in elk herds here, but the unit still has high success rates. This unit sits just west of the town of Bondurant Wyoming and there is plenty of access. You will find the wilderness boundaries along the northern edge of the unit, so nonresidents will have to pay attention to that. Those willing to search for the more secluded spots, should find great success in this unit.
Those willing to put in the effort to get away from the main access points, should find success in this unit. Later in the season could be more promising if the weather starts to push animals down.
There are some long and deep canyons with high mountain peaks of the Wyoming Mountain Range here. The peaks of the Gros Ventre Mountain Range gives hunters good vantage points for glassing and finding elk herds.
Wilderness
Under Wyoming law nonresidents are not permitted to hunt big game or trophy game in any federally designated wilderness areas without the presence of a licensed guide or resident companion. The resident companion must first get a free non-commercial guide license from a Game and Fish office. The law does not prohibit nonresidents from hiking, fishing or hunting game birds, small game, or coyotes in wilderness areas.
The majority of Unit 87 is Forest Service land with ranch lands in the west with good public access. Most roads are marked with Forest Service signs. This unit can be found in Western Wyoming, north of the Hoback Rim and east of the Hoback River. This area is also west of Shoal Creek, Dell Creek and south of Dell Creek Road and Riling Draw Road. ATV's, UTV's and 4-wheel drive vehicles are highly recommended in case of severe weather.
The eastern portion of the area is dominated by prairie grass and ranch land. West of ranch land, and more into the mountains, vegetation will transition into aspen, willows and conifers.
Some hunters will camp remotely on Forest Service land on the unit with no permit required. Designated camping areas can be found at specific lakes. Motel lodging can be also be found west of the unit in Bondurant.
Roughly 180 square miles
87% public land
Elevations from 6,700-10,500 feet
7.8% Wilderness