Quick Tips
- Limited cell phone service
- Many of the seasons for deer, elk and antelope overlap, resulting in high hunter traffic and competition for space
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 170"+ |
| Elk | 290"-330" | 340"+ |
| Antelope | 60"-70" | 75"+ |
On The Ground
This unit is north of Interstate 80 between Carlin and Elko and features the southern ends of the Independence and Adobe mountains. Mule deer, elk and pronghorn antelope are hunted here. Most land is covered by sagebrush with some mixed aspen and serviceberry stands.
The small elk population during the summer grows during the winter migrations, particularly during the rifle seasons when elk begin to migrate into or through the unit. Deer are found at all elevations of this unit. The late rifle season is best for locating and tagging trophy mule deer bucks.
Terrain
Steep terrain occurs on Nannies Peak in the north and parts of Swales Mountain in the south. The remainder of the unit exhibits rolling hills, deep and shallow swales, and benches. Nannies Peak is the highest point of elevation in the unit at 8,700 feet. The lowest elevations reside at approximately 5,000 feet above mean sea level near Carlin, Nevada. Scattered water sources with the highest concentrations occurring in the Nannies Peak region of the unit.
Roughly 492 square miles
49.5% private land
Elevations from 5,000-8,700 feet
Vegetation
Sagebrush dominates much of the unit, however patches of bitterbrush and serviceberry occur in many areas. Nannies Peak and few drainages on Swales Mountain harbor pockets of quaking aspens. Many drainage bottoms harbor wet meadows and dense willows.
Access
This unit is mostly public land with excellent vehicle access to nearly most regions of the unit. Regions that are not road accessible can be reached by foot. Much of the Swales Mountain region is privately owned by the TS Ranch, which prohibits general public access, however written permission to trespass can be acquired by contacting and visiting the ranch headquarters. All appropriate contact information is provided on their website.
The Coyote Creek Ranch, located along the Maggie Creek Road, on the west side of the unit, also prohibits general public access through their property, but at times they have been known to also provide written permission to trespass. Visiting the ranch in person to ask for permission is best. Other small plots located along State Route 225 are privately owned, but alternative routes around these private parcels are available.
Mountain City Highway (State Route 225) serves as the primary route for accessing the eastern side of the unit, while Maggie Creek Road serves as the best route for accessing the west side of the unit. US Highway Interstate 80 provides the best access to the southern reach of the unit, while State Route 226 provides the best access to the northern part of the unit. All primitive routes stemming from these major travel routes provide better access to specific areas of the unit.
Camping and Lodging
Carry plenty of supplies, food, water and spare tires. Hunters may get motel rooms and general supplies in Carlin or Elko, Nevada. Both are located along US Highway Interstate 80. More lodging accommodations are provided in Elko. Hot meals are offered at the State Route 225 and 226 intersection, as well as at the Taylor Canyon Station, located northwest on State Route 226. RV parking with utility hookups available is provided at the Taylor Canyon Station.
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