Quick Tips
- Elk hunters can make getting away from the crowd very difficult
- Good fishing in the nearby Main, East & West Fork of the Bitterroot River
- Tire chains recommended if there is a heavy snowfall
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 160"-180" | 180"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 110"-120" | 130"+ |
| Elk | N/A | 320"+ |
On The Ground
This unit is located in the southwest corner of the state on the east side of Highway 93. Stretching from Skalkaho Pass toward the Idaho Border, connecting with the Continental Divide as it heads east. The area is comprised of mainly public land covered in old logging roads through thick and steep mountains, offering great access for the willing hiker. The area has been strictly managed for trophy-quality mule deer. Elk can also be hunted here just by applying for one of the unlimited draw permits.
Renowned for its trophy deer, the unit has taken a slight dive in quality over the past five years, for many reasons. Poaching is a large problem here. There are a lot of elk and whitetail deer that call this home too.
Terrain
This unit begins at the base of the Anaconda-Pintler wilderness. The southern part of the unit is very steep and rugged, about ¾ of this area is made up of thick timbered mountains, partially devastated by an old burn. It is now riddled in logging roads and clear cuts. While the northern part of the unit starts out very steep, slowly begins to open up as it rolls down towards the valley floor becoming more moderate country.
Roughly 664 square miles
84.6% public land
Elevations from 3,800-9,000 feet
Vegetation
High up along the wilderness line, the country consists of thick Douglas fir and ponderosa pine forests, with intermittent grassy meadows on south facing slopes. A huge portion located in the middle of the unit was burned a few years back causing a major alder brush outbreak. As you drop in elevation it begins to open up more, with less dense groves of timber, the big grassy meadows now turn into giant grassy and sage-covered slopes.
Access
Public access is excellent. It’s covered with well-maintained traveling roads, with many parking and hiking opportunities. There is a major logging road system winding all throughout the unit.
Tire chains recommended if there is a heavy snowfall
Skalkaho, Rye Creek and the East Fork of the Bitterroot are the main roads
Camping and Lodging
There are lots of options for any style of hunter in this unit. Hamilton, Darby and Sula all offer several options for lodging. Hamilton has the only sporting goods store, but groceries, gas and other amenities can be found at all of these locations. Camping is allowed on all national forests for up to 14 days in one location. There are also a few designated campsites located throughout the unit.
Lost Trail Hot Springs Resort, Sula Resort and Rye Creek Lodge
Black Bear, Indian Trees and Martin Creek are public campgrounds
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