Quick Tips
- Great backpack hunting in north zone unit
- Glass from high points
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 130"-150" | 160"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 110"-120" | 130"+ |
| Elk | 270"-300" | 300"+ |
On The Ground
This small unit bordering Oregon is split approximately 60/40 between private and public land. The 4-0 Ranch Wildlife Area is located at the center of the unit, bordering the south side of Umatilla National Forest. Grouse Flats Unit and several sections of BLM on the southside breaks of the Grande Ronde River also provide public hunting opportunities. The 4-0 Ranch Unit within manages deer and elk tags by special draw permit only access. The National Forest is the largest chunk of public property and provides good backpack or pack animal hunting with very little in the way of interior roads. Hunt the mule deer high and the whitetail deer low.
Nothing beats boots-on-the-ground scouting and meeting local landowners for the best chance at a quality hunting experience.
Terrain
The terrain in this unit ranges from rugged backcountry National Forest with north facing slopes forested in pine and fir, falling off to the south as drainages carve deep canyons through open, arid bench country, providing excellent hay meadows and livestock grazing. The Grande Ronde River cuts through the southeast corner with 1,000-ft breaks along both banks in deep contrast to the northern forest zone.
Roughly 109 square miles
41% public land
Elevations range from 1,800– 6,000 feet
Vegetation
The National Forest consists of fir and pine dropping off to the Grande Ronde River via Menatchee Creek, Cougar Creek and other smaller creeks and drainages. The benches above the river breaks are largely hay meadows and cattle operations to the edge where they drop 800-ft in as short as 500-yards.
Access
Access into the majority of the wilderness is roadless, steep and rugged.
National Forest offers good backpack hunting opportunities
Camping and Lodging
Primitive camping in the National Forest is allowed most of the year, however, various fire bans and forest road closures may be in effect, so double check any restrictions or permits necessary prior to your trip. Menatchee Creek Trail has decent camping by the creek. There are no nearby towns offering lodging, gas or groceries.
Historical Temperatures
High
Low
Moon Phases
April 2025
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3