Quick Tips
- You need to be in good physical condition
- Bring good optics and good quality clothing that can withstand the elements
- Always pack bear spray as you are in grizzly country
- Some of the mountain lakes provide good fishing opportunities
On The Ground
This district lies just northwest of Yellowstone National Park. Most of the mountain goats will be found in the Lee Metcalf Wilderness in the Madison Range. This is extremely steep, rough mountainous country. There is no better place when the weather is good than the high country.
This district has historically been a consistent producer of good quality goats. Billies in the 9” range are available in this district. Goat populations are down from historic highs, but are stable and doing well.
Terrain
This area is extremely steep and rocky with peaks to 11,000 feet. Most of the goat hunting will be done above timberline. Elevation gains of 3,000 to 4,000 feet can be a daily experience. Some of the mountain peaks are sheer rock faces that are unhuntable. The creek bottoms have timber and water.
Roughly 180 square miles
76% public land
Elevations from 6,000-11,000 feet
Vegetation
The creek bottoms have spruce, fir and pine trees. Most of the timber is gone by mid elevation and it turns to sub-alpine grasses and forbs. The upper elevations are mostly rocky ridges and sheer rock mountain faces, with pockets of alpine plants, moss and lichens.
Access
From the west, take Highway 287 to the Indian Creek trailhead. From the east, take Highway 191 to Taylor Fork Creek Road, up this road to the trailhead. Either way the rest is backpacking or horseback into the wilderness area. These are relatively good maintained Forest Service trails. Later in the season, snow can make it difficult to access this district.
ATVs are not allowed in the wilderness areas
Camping and Lodging
Typically hunters will camp in the wilderness in the heart of the goat country. There are excellent camping spots in the stream bottoms that have water, firewood and protection and most provide glassing of goats from camp.
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