At a Glance
1,321Square Miles
48.2%Public Land
5,050 - 10,601Elevation Range
Quick Tips
- Bring a GPS with land ownership data
- Visit Giggling Springs or Spence Springs
- Bears are common
Hunters generally perceive Unit 6A in New Mexico as a challenging yet potentially rewarding area. Many highlight the rugged terrain and dense forests, which require thorough preparation and a good fitness level to navigate effectively. The unit is known for its variable game patterns, with recommendations focusing on understanding the seasonal habits of elk and adapting strategies accordingly. Overall, those with experience in similar difficult landscapes will find their skills valuable, and planning hunts around game migration patterns is advised for success in this unit.
The western side of the Jemez Mountains, the San Pedro Mountains and the Sierra Nacimiento and their foothills comprise this unit, which is east of Cuba and borders the west side of Valles Caldera National Preserve. Elk can be found in good numbers here, as well as mule deer.
Hunters who scout before the season, know where to look for elk and hunt every day of the season have a good chance at taking an elk, with some bigger bulls harvested from this area every year. Mule deer populations are not big here but decent bucks can be found with some effort.