Quick Tips
- Hunt the high ground along the western border
- Can be lots of pressure along roads
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 110"-130" | 140"+ |
| Elk | 280"-310" | 310"+ |
On The Ground
The Bumping River and Bumping Lake dissect the northern third of this significantly roadless unit within the Wenatchee National Forest. Deep Creek Road is basically the only main road and separates the Bumping River drainage with the craggy peaks to the southeast. Approximately half of the west border is shared with Mount Rainier National Park up to Road 410, which serves as the northern boundary. This unit has fairly gentle topography, especially for roadless country. There have been a few smaller wildfires since 2001, with the 2017 American Fire in the northern portion being one of the largest. There are a few resident deer and elk throughout the unit, however, after heavy snows, populations definitely increase making for a better late season hunting experience. The best hunting typically takes place during late seasons after significant snowfalls have occurred in the high country.
Mount Aix attracts migrating game and presents a good late season opportunity.
Terrain
A rocky string of mountains dissects the unit north to south from Rimrock to Bumping Lake. Bumping River dissects the unit southwest to northwest, and offers about the only road access to this Wenatchee National Forest GMU. Rocky peaks, talus slopes, and thick old growth forests are found in this relatively mild unit. With that being said, this is a predominantly roadless unit with elevation changes of 5,000-ft.
There is good hunting opportunity here, especially for backpack hunters. Bumping Lake is the unit’s most prominent feature, and offers excellent year-round water and browse.
Roughly 286 square miles
99% public land
Elevations range from 2,600– 7,700 feet
Vegetation
Old conifer forests of ponderosa pine, douglas fir and grand fir dominate the GMU, with the exception of the string of rocky peaks that dissect the unit. These rocky peaks are above timberline and much thicker and steeper on the northwestern slope. Bumping Lake and numerous creeks and meadows offer the best feed, including native grasses, forbs, buckbrush and taller reed grass. A few small wildfires have happened over the past two decades leaving a variety of patch burns in various stages of regrowth.
Access
This unit has a lot of public land with very little road access. Bumping Lake offers road access and camping deep into the unit. From there, there are a few roads and trailheads to start your day or overnight trip.
Camping at Bumping Lake within unit
Roadless country, you will want a GPS
Camping and Lodging
There are some camping options along Bumping Lake and Rimrock Lake. Primitive camping in the National Forest is allowed for the majority of the year, but various fire bans and forest road closures may happen, 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 Naches and Selah, both well outside the unit.
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