Quick Tips
- Visit nearby Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
- Check for fire closures before hunting
- Scout before the season to learn access routes
- Gain access to private land for the best hunting
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 130"-150" | 160"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 110"-120" | 130"+ |
| Elk | 290"-320" | 330"+ |
On The Ground
This northeastern unit borders Washington and includes some rugged and mostly timbered ridges and canyons in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest along with many open, grassy foothills and flats. Elk, mule deer and whitetail deer are here in healthy numbers.
This unit is known for good elk hunting with many five and six-point bulls.
Terrain
Mostly timbered mountains in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest range mainly from 3,000 to 4,500 feet above sea level. Some slopes are steep, but most are moderate. Many grassy, rolling hills and flat range land and farm land surround the mountains. Many deep canyons divide the mountains with drainages cutting out into the plains. Enterprise is in the southern tip of the unit, and Elgin is in the southwestern corner. The Grande Ronde River forms part of the western boundary, while Joseph Canyon and Crow Creek are on the eastern edge.
Roughly 884 square miles
21% public land
Elevations from 1,700-4,600 feet
Vegetation
Mountains are mostly forested with larches, spruces, firs and pines. Many open meadows and logged-over openings provide grass and brush for big game animals. Conifers, alders, birches and many types of brush line the deep cuts extending into the foothills and plains, and there are conifers covering parts of many foothills. Short and long grasses and forbs cover most of the open range outside the National Forest.
Access
A network of roads provide access to lands in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Visit the National Forest website for other road closures and restrictions. Most good game habitat, however, is on private land. Whisky Creek and Shamrock travel management areas provide access to some private timber lands. These have road use restrictions. Noregaard Cooperative Travel Management Area takes up most of the southeastern corner. You must get permission or pay to hunt other private properties.
Camping and Lodging
Lodging is available in several towns along the southern border. Options include 1910 Historic Enterprise House Bed & Breakfast in Enterprise, Minam River Lodge in Minam and Mingo Motel in Wallowa. Wallowa Lake Lodge is on Wallowa Lake near Joseph, which is close to the southern edge of the Sled Springs Unit. Cabins may be rented at Flying Arrow Resort on the Wallowa River.
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