The unit is found in the northwest corner of the state and lies along the South Dakota state line. This is one of the most notable elk units in the state and this unit has been sought after by applicants for years. A smaller distribution of public lands are found in this unit, but generally speaking, most elk activity occurs on private lands. Because this is a once-in-a-lifetime harvest for residents, many lucky tag holders opt to hire outfitters to ensure private access.

Bulls can grow quite large in this area but the lack of public hunting opportunities can make things tough. Consider hiring an outfitter to ensure private access to lands holding elk.

Most of this area is composed of a rolling prairie landscape and brushy coulees. Agricultural areas dot the landscape but most of this unit is untouched and can provide some excellent hunting opportunities if elk are present. Many creek beds wind themselves through the landscape creative breaks in the terrain that are excellent for spot and stalk adventures.

Typical prairie grasses and shrubs dominate most of the undeveloped areas. Creek bottoms with see a higher distribution of willows, cottonwoods, and pines. Stands of mature hardwoods will often be found in and around agricultural areas.

Public access is great in this unit, but elk encounters on public land are limited and hard to count on. Successfully filling a tag can be done on public grounds, but with this being a once-in-a-lifetime harvest, hunters are generally encouraged to seek private access through themselves, by paying trespass fees, or to go through an outfitter. All of the public land on this unit will be found in the western half with the biggest collection of these lands being found just south of Chadron.

Modern lodging is available in any of the bigger towns in the unit, plus there is enough public land that hunters can opt for a primitive camp, if desired. Due to the nature of this hunt and many tag holders going with an outfitter, most lodging and accommodations are generally taken care of.