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Unit 31

Last Updated: Jun 6, 2024
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Quick Tips

  • Hike into wilderness for quality Coues deer hunting
  • Use high-quality optics to find big Coues bucks
  • Be patient when glassing for Coues deer
  • Numerous javelina
  • Quail hunting in fall and winter
SpeciesGeneral SizeTrophy Potential
Mule Deer130"-150"160"+
Coues Deer80"-95"100"+
Elk260"-300"300"+
Antelope65"-75"75"+
Desert Bighorn Sheep160"-170"175"+

On The Ground

This unit lies south of the San Carlos Indian reservation in southeastern Arizona. The Aravaipa area features thousands of acres of wilderness and rugged terrain. The Pinaleno Mountains reach 10,719 feet on top of Mount Graham. Coues deer, mule deer, elk, antelope, and desert bighorn sheep reside within the unit.

Long considered a top unit for trophy class desert bighorn sheep; also offers high quality Coues deer hunting and a few desert mule deer. Bighorn tags are also valid in Unit 32, which has more sheep.

Terrain

Along the Gila River are gradually sloping valleys. Elsewhere are several steep canyons and hundreds of square miles of rugged, mountainous terrain in the Santa Teresa and Pinaleno mountains.

  • Roughly 1,213 square miles

  • 85.7% public land

  • Elevations range from about 2,800 feet along the Gila River to about 10,719 feet on Mount Graham

Pines, firs and spruces grow in the high mountains, while several species of cactus, chaparral, pinyon pines and junipers grow at middle elevations. Lowlands support cactus, desert scrub and desert grasses.

Most land is public and is managed by the Coronado National Forest, the BLM and the state. Private land restricts access in some low terrain.

  • ATVs are helpful on rough, rocky and steep roads

  • Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended

  • Hunters must hike or ride horses in three areas

  • Santa Teresa Wilderness (26,780 acres)

  • Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness (19,410 acres)

  • Mount Graham Wilderness Study Area (about 62,000 acres)

Remote camping is allowed on Coronado National Forest, BLM and state lands. Lodging is in Safford and Willcox. Stockton Pass campground is at the base of the Pinaleno Mountains. Developed campgrounds in Pinaleno Mountains include:

  • Arcadia

  • Shannon

  • Hospital Flat

  • Columbine

  • Soldier Creek

  • Riggs Flat

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