Quick Tips
- ATVs may not leave roads
- Good fishing for tiger muskies at Bluewater Lake
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
| Elk | 300"-330" | 340"+ |
| Antelope | 65"-70" | 70"+ |
On The Ground
Elk and mule deer can be found in the Sandstone canyons and ponderosa forests here. Deer numbers are relatively low, but a good bucks can still be found in this unit. Elk numbers are decent with some good bulls taken every year.
Deer numbers are low and hunters should be patient while hunting this area. the late archery and muzzleloader elk dates can provide great rut action at times
Terrain
This area sees a good deal of terrain variation although most of it not too severe. Gaining a good vantage point for glassing can be a great starting point for locating animals but still hunting through the many folds and hidden draws may be necessary. Most of the area is at least sparsely covered in pinyon-juniper which can easily hide animals in areas that initially appear as wide-open. HIgher elevation areas in the southwest corner of the unit will see a higher distribution of mature timber stands.
Roughly 2,230 square miles
35.6% public land
Elevations from 6,500-9,256 feet
Vegetation
The lower elevations have sagebrush flats and foothills with huge stands of juniper and pinyon pine. Middle elevations are mostly forested by dense juniper, pinyon and ponderosa pine with occasional grassy parks. Ponderosas grow at the highest elevations along with other conifers. The terrain is relatively moderate, with little elevation change from most creeks to the plateaus above them.
Access
Gravel and dirt roads access for almost the entire forest service part of the unit. Much BLM and state land is inaccessible by road because of surrounding tribal and private property. Interstate 40 runs from northwest to southeast on the unit’s northern border with main access points at Fort Wingate, Prewitt, Grants and Ramah. Most of the forest service roads are not maintained.
Camping and Lodging
Several options for modern lodging can be found in the town of Gallup and its surrounding areas. Groceries and some select sporting goods can also be found in Gallup.
Historical Temperatures
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