Quick Tips
- Grizzlies are prevalent in this area, a sidearm or spray is recommended
- Clean campsites are a must when camping in bear country
- GPS, Maps, or a compass are highly recommended
- Off trail/road travel can be difficult due to vegetation and terrain steepness
On The Ground
This hunting district is found directly west of Glacier National Park in Northwest Montana. This area provides incredible scenery and gives bear hunters the chance to choose exactly what kind of experience they want out of their hunt. While not legal to hunt, Grizzly Bears can be found in abundance here and hunters must exercise extreme caution when in the field. The terrain found here can be unrelenting and physically challenging.
There are great black bear hunting opportunities in this district, though the high probability of grizzly encounters may steer many hunters away from the area.
Terrain
For the most part, the terrain found in this district will be steep to very steep. Found in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and just outside of Glacier National Park, this areasports some incredibly rugged country that is sure to push anyone to their limits. Most of the area is heavily vegetated with heavy stands of timber and, at times, impassibleground cover. In the highest elevations, the thick tree cover will give way to alpine basins and rocky ridges, though ground cover will still remain incredibly dense. Thisdistrict does support a good road system to access the backcountry, however, there are many areas that remain roadless and untouched by man.
Roughly 794 square miles
86% public land
Elevations range from 3,000-7,600 feet
Vegetation
An enormous array of vegetation will be encountered in this area, thanks to the heavy amount of precipitation this part of the state typically receives. On any of the forested slopes that cover the area, hunters will find themselves in mature stands of red fir, white fir, white pine, lodgepole, tamarack, and even some cedar in the darker draws. As the elevation continues to climb, stunted stands of subalpine fir will become ever apparent. Found particularly heavy on northern slopes, impassible stands of mountain maple and alder can bring cross country travel speeds to a halt. Also found in abundance is huckleberry bushes, a primary food source for black bears in the fall.
Access
In the sense of publicly accessible lands this area is a goldmine! For the most part, if you can see it you can hunt it. However, some hunters may experience access issues on the actual terrain and thick vegetation. Many logging roads can be found crossing the landscape, providing hunters access into the backcountry.
US Highway 2, Highway 40, Highway 93 , Hay Creek and Moose Creek roads all provide major access points
Cross country travel can be difficult and a GPS is highly recommended
“Bushwhacking” can be very difficult and challenging
Camping and Lodging
Modern lodging options can be found in Eureka, Whitefish, and Columbia Falls. Some hunters may opt for primitive camping which is permitted on public lands for up to 14 days in a single spot. Groceries and other amenities can also be found in Eureka, Whitefish, and Columbia Falls. Sporting goods can be found in most within the unit, but some specialized needs may need to be met prior to your hunt.
Modern lodging options can be found in Eureka, Whitefish, and Columbia Falls
Sporting goods can be purchased in Eureka, Whitefish, and Columbia Falls
Hunting district is adjacent to Glacier National Park
Bear tags are not valid until 24 hours after the time of purchase, this can be important to remember for traveling hunters
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