This unit, better known as the Gros Ventre, is in the northwest portion of Wyoming, west of Jackson. Unfortunately for nonresidents, the majority of this unit is designated as a Wilderness Area. The largest section of non-Wilderness Area is located in the southernmost portion of the unit, near the Jim Creek Basin.

There was a large fire in 2016 in the southern portion of this unit. This area has had a few years of new growth and provides the best opportunity for nonresidents to find a black bear since it’s not in the Wilderness Area.

This unit can be rugged and unforgiving. There is very little “lower” elevation in this unit. As soon as you leave the valleys, you start gaining elevation, and you gain it fast. The mountains in this unit have steep, timber-covered ridges. Once above timberline, you are going to find what you would typically think of in an alpine environment -big basins with bald, rocky mountain peaks.

Wilderness

Under Wyoming law nonresidents are not permitted to hunt big game or trophy game in any federally designated wilderness areas without the presence of a licensed guide or resident companion. The resident companion must first get a free non-commercial guide license from a Game and Fish office. The law does not prohibit nonresidents from hiking, fishing or hunting game birds, small game, or coyotes in wilderness areas.

The mountains in this unit have steep, timber-covered ridges. Like all mountains in Wyoming, you will find lodgepole pines, white pines, juniper and aspen trees throughout the range. Along the waterways, you are going to find thicker brush and pockets of willows.

The vast majority of this unit is designated as a Wilderness Area. There are areas for nonresidents to hunt without being in the Wilderness Area, but not many. There is a small section right outside of Jackson and a larger section south of Jackson towards Bondurant. The section near Bondurant is probably the best portion for two reasons. First, it’s the largest section of National Forest that is not part of the Wilderness Area, and second, there was a massive fire there in 2016.

Jackson will be your best bet for lodging and supplies. There are other little towns scattered throughout this area, but there is only one place with a grocery store. As for camping, there are quite a few campgrounds in and around Jackson, but be aware most are not open year-round; be sure to contact the Forest Service office and see if they are open beforehand.