Quick Tips
- Do not expect to get away from hunting pressure during the elk season
- Good place for mobility impaired hunters to get on elk near the roadway
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 120"-140" | 150"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | N/A | 120"+ |
| Elk | N/A | 300"+ |
On The Ground
This district is located south of Helena in the Boulder Mountains and surrounding foothills west of I-15. The Helena National Forest makes up the bulk of elk habitat in this district. Numbers and trophy quality of elk in this district have declined in recent years as access has become increasingly easy for road hunters out of Helena. Mule deer and whitetail deer can also be hunted here.
Urban expansion has caused some encroachment on elk winter ranges forcing them out of the country. This district is right in the backyard of one of the state’s major cities and has numerous roads and trails in elk country make trophy quality and overall numbers very poor. Some good mule deer bucks generally come out of the southeast portion of the district.
Terrain
This district begins in the town of Helena and encompasses the northern Boulder Mountains south of town. The mountain range is moderate in relation to others in the state and has roads and trails all over. The lower elevations are broken foothills with long narrow coulees and rolling hills.
Roughly 218 square miles
55.6% public land
Elevations from 4,200-8,200 feet
Vegetation
The Helena National Forest is made up of dense ponderosa pine and Douglas fir timber. Many areas in this district have been impacted by mines and urban development which has opened areas up that were formerly timbered. Native grasses and wildflowers have overtaken clear cuts and burns throughout the area. The lower elevations are riparian habitat with lots of sagebrush covered hills and scattered pine trees.
Access
Public access in this area is almost too good. There are numerous roads and trails in this district and it is located directly south of the city of Helena. You would have a hard time getting over a mile away from a popular road or trail in this district.
Map of vehicle restrictions and roads in the Helena National Forest will be very beneficial
Camping and Lodging
Most people hunting in this district are day hunting out of Helena or have a private cabin in the mountains. Camping in the National Forest is unnecessary due to all the roads and easy accessibility from Helena. Helena has a variety of hotels to choose from as well as other supplies needed for a hunt.
Wingate, Best Western, Days Inn, Holiday Inn
Sportsman’s Warehouse and Capital Sports in Helena
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