Quick Tips
- GPS is a must in this unit
- Bring your bear spray, reports indicate small population of grizzlies in this unit
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 120"-140" | 150"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 100"-110" | 120"+ |
| Elk | Little-to-none | N/A |
On The Ground
Pasayten Wilderness covers this unit and shares the same name; however, boundary lines are not the same. Using a GPS and knowing exactly where you are at when hunting the borders is very important. The Okanogan National Forest in this unit is largely roadless, making for a great backcountry hunt experience, but be aware as this also falls within the grizzly bear recovery zone. Pasayten River dissects the unit along with mountain ridge consisting of multiple rocky peaks including Castle Peak (8,238-ft), Blizzard Peak (7,602-ft), Three Fools Peak (7,943-ft), and Jim Peak (7,001-ft), connected to the Devil’s Backbone in the south. Horseback and backpack hunts for mule deer in the higher elevation saddles are very popular. As the snow begins to fall, deer will migrate down to lower elevations. Scattered small populations of Rocky Mountain Elk can be extremely difficult to find unless you have up to date knowledge.
2017 and 2018 fire seasons produced a couple of big burns through middle of the unit; this, combined with large past burns in early 2000’s, provide diversity in vegetation and age class of growth.
Terrain
Pasayten Wilderness has no road access throughout most of this country which holds small densities of migratory deer. Jack Mountain at Nohokomeen Glacier cuts a swath in the rock from 8,806-ft to 6,200-ft in just over a mile in a straight line. The daunting alpine tundra at the top of the unit is divided by a maze of creeks, ridgelines, basins, jagged peaks, lakes and parks. This steep country commonly has several feet in elevation change, offering excellent glassing opportunities for big game.
Roughly 819 square miles
100% public land
Elevations range from 3,800– 8,900 feet
Vegetation
Old growth conifer forest with pine and fir dominates the north slopes, along with pockets of aspen. South facing slopes have much more open native grass meadows with timber scattered throughout, especially along the various drainages. These steep slopes are crowned by a multitude of amazing peaks topping out above well above timberline. Windblown tundra passes feature short alpine pines and an incredible array of wildflowers, lichen, forbs and short grasses making this excellent summer range for mule deer living in the high-alpine saddles and bowls. Lower elevation meadows and parks are a mix of grasses, shrubs, and wildflowers.
Access
This unit is all public land, so access will be easy. However, there are not many road systems going into this big country.
GPS should be used at all times when straying from any main trails as this is big country
Horseback or backpack hunting are your best options as much of unit is roadless
Camping and Lodging
Primitive camping on the National Forest is allowed for the majority 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. If you are more interested in a bed and a shower, and being closer to gas stations, restaurants, and a grocery store, your best options will be in the small towns of Winthrop and Twisp which are well outside the unit.
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