The Northwestern zone is located in the northwest corner of the state from the Oregon border near Crescent City south along the Pacific Coastline to near Shelter Cove. This zone includes portions of the Six Rivers National Forest in the north, a few State and National Redwood parks, a few swaths of BLM land, tribal land, and plenty of private land in the south half. Big elk may reside on private land; be open to considering outfitters with guided hunts.

A very small number of elk occur on rugged public land within the hunt area, but most occur on private property. Hunter success on public land is very low. Trespass fees for access to private land can be spendy, IF you can find some and IF they are willing to allow it.