Hunters considering Idaho's Unit 19 should be prepared for challenging conditions due to its remote and rugged terrain, making suitable game retrieval particularly demanding, especially during warmer weather. Backpacking is an option, but extra days might be necessary to pack in and out without the assistance of horses or pack animals. Hunters new to the area suggest teaming up with others via email for shared insights and logistical planning—they emphasize the importance of understanding the seasonal regulations for mule deer and elk, which vary post-October 9th. Leveraging pack services or accessing certain remote areas by boat could enhance the hunting experience and increase success, while ensuring arrangements are in place to prevent meat spoilage in this largely roadless zone.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 120"-140" | 140"+ |
| Elk | 260"-300" | 300"+ |
High
Low
Hunters can harvest elk, mule deer and whitetail in this area, which borders the Salmon River on the south and has a lot of acreage in the Gospel Hump Wilderness.
Elk numbers are down in this unit because of wolf predation. More mule deer than whitetail are harvested here with only 10 to 25 whitetail bucks taken per year.
Most of the unit is in the Gospel Hump Wilderness and drains into the Salmon River. The river is about 2,150 feet above sea level and drops to about 1,965 feet. There are mountains to the north, while the face above the river is dry and open with some exposed rock, but is more steep than rugged. Hunters can expect a lot of timber to the north. Most land that is more than 8,000 feet above sea level is rocky and open, like Buffalo Hump, Bear Grass Ridge and North Pole peak. Most of the area, especially the southern two-thirds is steep.
A lot of land is covered in pines, firs, cedars and spruces. South-facing slopes along the Salmon River are mostly grassy, brushy and rocky with scattered trees. Heavy timber can be found north of here. Large meadows usually sit in big basins at the heads of drainages. Bear grass takes up a lot space beneath old growth timber. The western part of the outside the Gospel Hump Wilderness has some clearcuts that are in various stages of regrowth.
Roughly 258 square miles
98.5% public land
Elevations from 1,965- 9,000 feet
No vehicles are allowed in the Gospel Hump Wilderness, which takes up about 75% of the unit. Buffalo Hump Road leads into the Buffalo Hump Mining District in the north and intersects with minor forest roads. Another main access road hunters can take is the Orogrande Dixie Road. Most of this land is remote and hunters are advised to use horses or other pack animals.
Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended on roads
All wheeled vehicles, even bikes, are not allowed in wilderness
Hunters can float the Salmon River to access the southern edge
Float permits and daily fees are required to float the Salmon River, details on acquiring permits are available here
Camping in the backcountry can be helpful when hunting, but this area is usually too remote for backpacking, especially for elk hunters. Hunters without horses should consider hiring an outfitter. Elk City is roughly 25 miles from the Wildhorse Lake area. Elk City Hotel offers lodging. Campgrounds can be found near Wildhorse Lake and the Dixie Mine area. Wildhorse Campground is near two trailheads into the Gospel Hump Wilderness. No stock is allowed in the campground, which has seven campsites.