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Wasatch Mtns, Salt Lake

Last Updated: Oct 28, 2021
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On The Ground

This unit is located in northern utah and just east of Salt Lake City. This area is about 50% public land but the public areas are found in the Wasatch Mountains which are steep, rugged, and mostly roadless. Hunters can expect very tough hunting conditions here but success can be very rewarding.

Good numbers of elk are found here but hunters can expect this hunt to be physically challenging. Conditioning prior to the hunt can make a huge difference.

Terrain

Mostly flat and private lands will be found on the east side of the unit around Salt Lake City and on the westside in the areas surrounding Park City. The central portion of the unit features a small stretch of the famous Wasatch Mountains. Very steep ridgelines will climb several thousand feet off the valley floor until they reach high alpine meadows and basins. Vegetation cover can be very thick in areas making cross country travel difficult. High country areas are still heavily vegetated but will generally see much less tree cover making for good glassing opportunities. Slightly less extreme country can found on the eastern front of the Wasatch Mountains though most of these areas are comprised of privately owned lands.

  • Roughly 299 square miles

  • 45% public land

  • Elevations range from 5,100- 11,300 feet

The lower elevation areas will see a heavy presence of oak brush, sage, some aspen, and scattered pockets of pine. Once the elevation begins to climb north facing slopes will become heavily timbered with mature stands of pine, fir, spruce, and aspen. Most south facing areas slopes will see much less tree cover but a higher presence of oak brush which can be very difficult to traverse through. High elevation bowls will see large patches of oak brush, native grasses, and sporadic tree cover. Most ridgelines will generally top out in large cliff faces, rocking knife edges, large scree fields, or any combination of the three. Walking in the high country is not hazardous but hunters need to pay attention.

In the lower lying private areas hunters will find little trouble accessing most huntable areas. There are not any roads found in the Wasatch section of the unit and hunters will need to access these areas by foot. Physical exertion will be high in this areas. During warmer periods the elk can be find near the highest elevations and hunters will need to hike into these areas.

  • Main roads of access will include Interstate 80, Interstate 15, Cottonwood Canyon Rd, Highway 40, and Highway 224

  • Tire chains recommended

There is a huge amount of options found throughout the unit when it comes to modern lodging. Once hunters establish their preferred entry point, lodging can then be selected to reduce drive times. Groceries and sporting goods can be found throughout the unit but specialty needs may need to be purchased in Salt Lake City.

  • Modern lodging options found in nearly every town in the unit

  • Groceries and sporting goods can be found in every town throughout the unit but the most options will be found in Salt lake City

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