Quick Tips
- Great antelope genetics
- Elk are abundant and spread across unit
- Tree squirrel season is open in the fall
- Good trout fishing in Clear Creek and Blue Ridge reservoirs
- Good band-tailed pigeon hunting near water and acorns
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
| Elk | 300"-330" | 340"+ |
| Antelope | 60"-75" | 80"+ |
| Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep | 150"-155" | 160"+ |
On The Ground
This unit is along the Mogollon Rim in central Arizona and holds a healthy population of elk, some large antelope, mule deer and even a few mature Coues deer. Vegetation and terrain vary from conifer forests to rugged, brushy canyons and flat grasslands.
This unit offers great elk and antelope hunting with good opportunities to harvest mature bulls. Early archery elk season is much better than the late bow season and the biggest bulls are usually taken in early rut seasons. This unit offers mediocre mule deer and Coues deer hunting.
Terrain
Mixed conifer forest in higher elevations with large canyons draining onto grassland flats to the north. High country atop Mogollon Rim forms canyons that drain into Clear Creek.
Roughly 692 square miles
83.2% public land
Elevations from 4,800-7,800 feet
Most of the unit is not physically difficult to hunt
Some canyons and rims make for difficult hiking
Mogollon Rim country is rugged with long ridges and deep canyons
Vegetation
Higher elevations consist of mixed conifer forests with acorn-bearing oak brush. Mid-elevations have an abundance of oak, pinyon, shaggy bark junipers and alligator junipers. Lower elevations have some pinyon/juniper forests with mostly large grass and brush flats and canyons.
Access
Dirt roads provide good public access to the Coconino National Forest and state property. Lower elevations have a checkerboard mix of state and private land with good access. Access is permitted on the Clear Creek Ranch by written permission through the Hopi Tribe.
ATVs allowed on roads only
Four-wheel-drive vehicles recommended for snow and wet weather
Off-road travel permitted for elk retrieval only
Some private lands are posted
Camping and Lodging
Most hunters camp along Forest Service roads. Clint’s Well, Happy Jack and Winslow have lodging. Developed campgrounds include:
Blue Ridge
Rock Crossing
Knoll Lake
Kehl Springs Campground is undeveloped
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