Unit 5BN in Arizona is praised for its abundant elk population and impressive bull sightings, making it a noteworthy choice for hunters looking to supplement their harvesting experiences. Despite the unit's allure, hunters report significant pressure during the late rifle season, with numerous camps spread across the area. While early hunting seasons faced challenges like diverse water availability and climatic conditions affecting elk behavior, the unit still presents opportunities, especially around Anderson Mesa. The unit’s draw odds complexity is clarified as odds calculation involves considering both first and second choices before moving on, and while there is high interest across different game species, ongoing updates to the GOHUNT site promise improved accuracy on season dates and maps.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
| Elk | 300"-330" | 340"+ |
| Antelope | 65"-80" | 80"+ |
High
Low
Not only do elk and big antelope live in Unit 5B North but so do bison, which roam on the state-owned Raymond Ranch Wildlife Area. This unit includes much of Anderson Mesa in the Coconino National Forest east of Mormon Lake.
This unit often produces great hunting for bull elk and antelope bucks. Early archery elk season is better than the late bow season with the biggest bulls usually harvested during early archery and muzzleloader rut seasons. The bison hunt on Raymond Ranch is not as controlled as it once was.
Elk and antelope summer on a large, high, mostly forested flat known as Anderson Mesa. Large canyons break off Anderson Mesa to the northeast and drain onto flat country around the Raymond Ranch and Padre Canyon Roadless Area.
Dirt roads provide good public access to the Coconino National Forest and state property. There is limited private property, but public access is good.
High ponderosa pine and grasslands cover high elevations, while mid-elevations have oaks, pinyon, shaggy bark junipers and alligator bark junipers. Low elevations have some pinyon/juniper forests with mostly large, open grass and brush flats and canyons.
Most hunters camp along Forest Service roads. Camping on Raymond Wildlife Area is permitted in designated areas only. Lodging is available in Flagstaff and Winslow.
Roughly 527 square miles
87% public land
Elevations from 5,000-7,000 feet
Hunting is not physically strenuous
Volcanic rocks make roads on Anderson Mesa rough
The Padre Canyon Roadless Area is closed to motor vehicles
ATVs are allowed only on roads but not in Raymond Ranch Wildlife Area
Four-wheel-drive vehicles recommended in snowy, wet weather
Off-road travel permitted for elk retrieval only
KOA in Flagstaff provides full services for RV camping
Lakeview Campground at Lake Mary
Ashurst Campground at Ashurst Lake