Quick Tips
- Consider a backpack hunt in the north
- Much of the north is closed to hunting with guns
- Consider buying an over-the-counter elk tag
- Hunt the south after snow is on the ground
- Be alert and aware of bears
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 150"-170" | 170"+ |
On The Ground
The Wasatch Range creates the impressive eastern skyline above Salt Lake and communities to the north and south, but this unit includes only the part that is south of Interstate 80. Hunters can find more mature bucks by hiking into isolated canyons and peaks.
Deer numbers are good within this unit. Most trophy-class bucks stay at high elevations, mostly above the areas where most hunters are willing to hike. Buck quality tends to increase with elevation. Remote canyons and draws hold fewer but bigger deer.
Terrain
Nearly vertical slopes begin at Salt Lake City limits with some public trailheads originating in neighborhoods along the front. Most hunting takes place in the western and southern parts because the east side is mostly private with limited access. Much of the unit is roadless, so hunters should be physically capable of strenuous hiking at high altitude. Boundaries include Interstate 80, Interstate 15, US Highway 6 above Spanish Fork and U.S. Highway 40 between Park City and Strawberry.
Roughly 1,200 square miles
70% public land
Elevations from about 5,500-10,500 feet
Vegetation
Foothills are limited above Salt Lake City, but elsewhere they are covered with sagebrush, scrub oak, grasses, bitterbrush and various other shrubs. Steep mountains form bowls, open faces, steep canyons and draws. Aspens, pines, spruces and firs grow at high elevations along with maple and oak brush. Tree line is about 10,000 feet above sea level although timber is sparse to nonexistent on some steep, rocky slopes as low as 9,000 feet.
Access
No rifle or muzzleloader hunting is allowed in Salt Lake County. Archery hunting is prohibited in Alta City. No hunting is allowed within one-half mile of Silver Lake near Brighton. Hunters can get close to good hunting areas by using an extensive trail system that is popular among recreational hikers and mountain bikers, then hiking across the country to reach isolated canyons and ridges. Vehicle access to some trailheads closes Nov. 1. This unit is very accessible by road and can be hard to find areas without other hunters. Once the snow is deep on roads, cross-country skiers can reach several trailheads that are otherwise hard to reach. Hunters have better road access in the south but fewer trails and hiking routes, but physically fit hunters have little trouble reaching remote bowls and slopes.
ATVs are allowed in parts of the south and southeast
Research parking locations for trailheads ahead of time, especially in neighborhoods
Some parts of the unit are closed to hunting, see regulations
Hunters may not park in places designated for drivers to install tire chains
Hunters must have written permission to cross private property to reach public land
Camping and Lodging
Cities and towns along the Wasatch Front provide all types of accommodations, including hotels, motels, beds and breakfasts, camping sites and extended-stay suites. Campsites on public ground are open in early seasons but typically are closed in late fall. Camping on public ground off trails is allowed in almost all areas. Campgrounds in the south are considered family friendly and accommodate RVs and travel trailers.
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