Seasons for deer, elk and antelope overlap, resulting in high hunter traffic and competition for space
Ability to camp anywhere on public land, including scenic areas at Wilson Creek Reservoir and Chimney Reservoir
Species
General Size
Trophy Potential
Mule Deer
140"-160"
160"+
Elk
270"-310"
320"+
Antelope
60"-70"
75"+
On The Ground
Terrain
Vegetation
Access
Camping and Lodging
Historical Temperatures
High
Low
Moon Phases
December 2024
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The Snowstorm Mountains and the Owyhee Desert are the most notable parts of land in this area. Residing in the northern reaches of the state along the Idaho border and ranging from 5,100-8,400 feet above sea level. Most of the land is covered in sagebrush, with mixed aspen and serviceberry in the Snowstorm Mountains. Home to mule deer, elk, pronghorn antelope and California bighorn sheep.
Deer found at all elevations of the unit, with most at elevations above 6,500 feet in Snowstorm Mountains. Late rifle season best for locating and tagging trophy mule deer bucks. California bighorn sheep population is still recovering from recent pneumonia die-off.
Steep terrain in the Snowstorm Mountains and South Fork Owyhee River drainage in the northern part of the unit. The majority of this area has mild terrain with rolling hills, shallow and deep swales, benches, tables and flats. Kelly Creek Mountain, in the Snowstorm Mountains, is the highest point of elevation in the unit at 8,400 feet above mean sea level. The lowest elevations occur in the flats of the Owyhee Desert near the Idaho border. Multiple water sources provided throughout the Snowstorm Mountains, with most found in elevations above 6,500 feet. Scattered water sources throughout the Owyhee desert.
Sagebrush covers most of this land, with patches of bitterbrush, dense aspen and serviceberry. Much of the lower foothills and benches of the Snowstorm Mountains, as well as portions of the Owyhee Desert have been subject to fire over the past two decades. Lots of burned regions, especially at elevations of 6,500 and lower, are covered in cheatgrass, but those burned regions above 6,500 feet have been nearly reestablished with native grasses. Brush species, such as sagebrush, serviceberry and bitterbrush continue to recover in these areas, but at a slow rate.
Widely public land with excellent vehicle access to most regions of the unit. Regions that are not road accessible can be reached by foot. The town of Midas and the Midas Mine are the only areas where public access is strictly prohibited, but multiple alternative routes give hunters access to travel around these parcels. In the eastern area, the Petan Ranch owns large tracts of land that also strictly prohibit public access. In the northeastern corner, the Owyhee Native American Reservation covers a large area. Though public access is available through Native Lands, hunting is strictly prohibited.
State Route 226 provides best access to the northeastern part of the unit, while the Scraper Spring/Deep Creek Road provides the best access to the southeast part. Midas and Kelley Creek Roads provide best access to the southwestern corner, while multiple primitive routes stemming from these major travel routes provide better access to specific areas of this land.
Bring plenty of supplies, water and fuel when hunting in this area. Motel rooms and general supplies in Battle Mountain (south), Paradise Valley (west), Winnemucca (southwest) and Mountain City (northeast). Lodging accommodations and supplies are also available in Elko and Carlin to the southeast. Fuel and supplies are also available at the Owyhee Native American Reservation in the northwest. Hot meals offered in Midas, in the southwest corner of this area.