Hunters discussing their experiences in Wyoming's Area 38 report spotting abundant moose, particularly near the Snowy Range west of Centennial, with sightings common enough that some felt they could have completed their hunt within the first couple of days. One member noted a previous bull to cow ratio figure was incorrect, correcting it to 113:100, which could impact expectations for the herd's structure. The sentiment is generally positive, with confidence in the area's potential reflected in successful past hunts and moose visibility. Those planning hunts are advised to prioritize locations within this region to maximize efficiency and success.
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Area 38 is located in southeastern Wyoming, south of Highway 30. This area is known for its high success and has some of the largest bulls in the state. The terrain here allows hunters to glass a lot of area from high vantage points. This area produces a few Boone and Crockett and Pope and Young bulls every year.
Trophy-quality bulls can be located in different parts around the area. During the beginning of the archery season, bulls will be focused on looking for cows. Find creeks and river bottoms to locate bulls.
This area is made up of long, deep canyons that have conifers and sagebrush ridge sides. The unit is dominated by the Medicine Bow National Forest. The highest point in this area is Medicine Bow Peak.
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 majority of Area 38 consists of National Forest land with a few ranch lands with good public access. Most roads in the area are marked with Forest Service signs. This unit is located east of Highway 130, west of Highway 223 and north of the Colorado Border.
The majority of the area is covered in pinyon, prairie grass and other conifers. The higher peaks of the mountains have aspen and conifers. A few ranches and creek bottoms will have willows and cottonwood trees.
Hunters can camp on the Forest Service land within the unit with no permit required. Lodging at multiple motels can be located just west of the unit in Saratoga and east of the unit in Laramie, Cheyenne and Centennial.
Roughly 4,062 square miles
41% public land
Elevations from 6,900-10,900 feet
1.5% Wilderness
Savage Run Wilderness and Platte River Wilderness are located here
All nonresidents must be accompanied by a guide while hunting in wilderness areas
ATVs and UTVs are helpful, but are restricted to marked roads trails
Four-wheel drive and chains are recommended during late season hunts when snow is likely