The discussions around Idaho's Unit 12 highlight a mix of challenges and opportunities for hunters, particularly concerning elk and bear hunting. Many hunters suggest that wolf presence has impacted elk numbers, and the unit's steep, challenging terrain requires a strategic approach, often necessitating the use of vehicles like 4-wheelers to access higher grounds. Seasonal timing is key, with late May often presenting better conditions despite the unpredictable weather—rain and thick vegetation can hinder visibility and movement. Hunters also emphasize the importance of being equipped for northern Idaho's demanding landscapes and suggest using tools like OnXmaps for navigating logged and open hunt areas effectively. Overall, while some find the unit tough, its low hunter pressure and dense forests are attractive to those accustomed to such environments, and careful planning can lead to rewarding experiences.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 150"-160" | 160"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 120"-130" | 140"+ |
| Elk | 280"-310" | 310"+ |
High
Low
The area is known for the Lochsa River that runs through its middle. Elk, whitetail deer and mule deer can all be hunted here.
Hunting is difficult due to limited game, steep terrain and dark timber. The introduction of wolves has also suppressed some game populations.
This unit starts about 10 miles east of Kooskia and consists mostly of mountains. Some high alpine country with open rocky basins, high meadows and small lakes can be found near the Montana border and near it. Most of the land is federally owned and managed by the Clearwater National Forest in Idaho and Clearwater counties. A lot of the slopes here are steep, especially along the Lochsa and Middle Fork of the Clearwater Rivers and in some of the high country. The Middle Fork of the Clearwater River drops to less than 1,400 feet in elevation before leaving the unit. The lower half of the Lochsa River is also several thousand feet below surrounding mountains.
Most of the land is heavily forested. Some of it has been logged, especially near the U.S. Highway 12 at the Montana border, but a lot of parts are covered by mature forests. This is one of the Western areas where fire suppression has probably harmed big game numbers. Pines, firs, spruces and cedars are so dense that spot-and-stalk hunting is difficult except in the high country along and near the Montana line. Some willows, birches and other riparian brush also grow here.
Roughly 1,189 square miles
94.5% public land
Elevations from 1,400-8,400 feet
A lot of the area here is well-roaded. Most roads are open to all motor vehicles. The main road is U.S. Highway 12, which runs from northeast to southwest through the heart of the unit. A lot of forest roads branch off U.S. 12. A few trails are open to motorcycles. ATVs can use most forest roads.
The Clearwater National Forest makes vehicles maps available online
ATVs are handy on some forest roads
Four-wheel-drive is recommended
Some hunters camp along roads. The Forest Service maintains 10 campgrounds along U.S. 12. Rocky Ridge Lake Campground offers free camping on the northwest corner. Campgrounds can also be found near Hoodoo Lake along the south edge of the eastern end and at the mouth of Horse Creek just north of Hoodoo Lake. Lodging is available in Kooskia and include a couple of bed and breakfasts, Western Motor Inn and River Junction RV Park. River Dance Lodge, east of Kooskia on Highway 12, has rooms as well as cabins and luxury tents.