Quick Tips
- Four-wheel ATVs and side by sides helpful
- Be prepared for camping and hiking in big country
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 170"+ |
| Elk | 270"-310" | 310"+ |
| Antelope | 65"-75" | 80"+ |
On The Ground
This mostly public unit includes the Shoshone Mountains in the Humbolt-Toiyabe National Forest and some private property on valley floors. Hunters who hunt here can avoid the hunting crowd that usually forms in Unit 173.
A growing number of elk inhabit Unit 173, which borders on the south.
Terrain
Both sides of the Shoshone Mountains rise gradually from low-lying valleys, which are mostly brush but also include a few crop fields. Mountains in the range have steep and moderately steep slopes.
Roughly 598 square miles
96.9% public land
Elevations mostly 6,000-10,000 feet
Vegetation
Large sagebrush valleys lead into 6,000-7,500 foot hills covered with pinyon pines and juniper trees. From about 7,500 to 8,500 feet open sagebrush basins with some aspen pockets along water sources lie below ridges lined with mahogany and rock outcroppings. Above 8,500 feet are vertical ridges and mountains, steep cliffs and rock formations.
Access
Mostly public roads, ranging from maintained gravel roads to four-wheel-drive and ATV trails, lead to good places to start hunting.
Private property does not impede access to public land.
Horses can be an asset.
Four-wheel-drive vehicles and ATVs are important
Main roads:
Highway 722 in the north
Highway 21 in the east
Camping and Lodging
Hunters can find lodging, restaurants and fuel in Austin in the north and Tonopah in the south. Middlegate Station on Highway 50 also have services. Camping spots for RVs as well as tents are along both sides of the Shoshone Range. Backpack hunters can set up spike camps in the high country, but some water sources are intermittent.
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