Low numbers of elk make hunting difficult in this unit, where high mountains in the southern quarter are mostly covered by conifers with grassy flats stretching across the north. Tags are easier to draw here than in other Arizona units, but don’t spend a lot of bonus points to draw an elk tag. Deer numbers also are low. Antelope hunting is much better.

This unit is known for high quality antelope hunting and mediocre elk and deer hunting. This is because antelope herds are stable while mule deer and Coues deer herds continue to decline. Early archery elk season is better than late bow season, yet few big bulls are killed during the rut.

Mixed conifer forest in high elevations in the south, grassland flats in the north and large canyons between.

Higher elevations are comprised of mixed conifer forests. The mid-elevations have pinyon and juniper trees. The lower elevations have some pinyon and juniper forests with mostly large, open grass and brush flats and canyons.

Dirt roads provide good public access to the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest and state property. The northern three-fourths of the unit is mostly a checkerboard-style mix of public and private land with some restricted access. Virtually every square mile of state or BLM land is surrounded on four sides by private sections.

Most hunters camp along dirt roads. Camping is allowed on most public land in the unit. Payson, Heber-Overgaard, Show Low, Holbrook and Winslow have lodging. Developed campgrounds include: