Hunters discussing Idaho's Unit 4 share valuable insights that highlight the area's varied challenges and opportunities. Archery and bear hunters express interest in learning about specific entry points and terrain, emphasizing the advantages of entering from less crowded routes like Clark Fork. Hunters report an increase in grizzly encounters and mention wolf presence, though they note bears and lions pose a more significant predation concern. Additionally, hunters are advised to be prepared for high recreational use with dirt bikes and ATVs on trails, recommending a bear fence for protection and highlighting frustration with motorized traffic's impact on the hunting experience. There's a strong spirit of collaboration, with hunters eager to exchange information and scout together, particularly regarding elk, whitetail tags, and outfitter options.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 130"-150" | 150"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 120"-130" | 130"+ |
| Elk | Raghorn-290" | 290"+ |
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A large area bordering Montana and containing the headwaters of the Coeur d’Alene River, this area holds elk, whitetail deer and smaller numbers of mule deer.
A network of roads, ATV trails and motorcycle trails provide access to many remote elk hangouts in the Coeur d'Alene National Forest.
Surrounding Kellogg and containing the headwaters of the Coeur d’Alene River, this unit borders Montana and is mostly composed of heavily forested mountains in the Coeur d’Alene National Forest. Its northern tip is about 7 miles south of Lake Pend Oreille, and its southern tip is about 3 miles from the southern end of Coeur d’Alene Lake. Parts of Bonner, Kootenai and Shoshone counties are included.
A large network of roads, ATV trails and motorcycle trails allow hunters to reach much of the Coeur d’Alene National Forest. There are a few remote areas that are ideal for backpack hunting or hunting by horseback. Backcountry hunters can enjoy several roadless areas that range from about 5-20 square miles. Routes that lead to the forest road network branch from Interstate 90, which runs across the unit and from U.S. Highway 95 in the east.
Most of the land is forested. A few different kinds of trees grow here, including hemlock, birches, aspen, western larch, western red cedar and various pines. A lot of shrubs, forbs and grasses grow in cut blocks, meadows, basins and on hills and lowlands that either don’t support trees or have been burned or logged. Willows and other riparian plants can be found along streams.
Forest Service campgrounds close in September and sometimes sooner, depending on weather. Most hunters camp in the backcountry or along dirt or gravel roads. The Forest Service has new rules that require food and game carcasses near camps to be kept out of reach of grizzlies and black bears. Lodging is available in Coeur d’Alene and Kellogg.
Coeur d’Alene options for lodging:
Kellogg options for lodging:
Roughly 1,231 square miles
80.1% public land
Elevations from 2,000-4,500 feet
Four-wheel-drive traction is recommended
A few roads are open to ATVs, which must be less than 50” wide
A few trails are restricted to motorcycles
Coeur d’Alene Resort
Roosevelt Inn
Silver Mountain Resort
Guesthouse Inn & Suites