At a Glance
Quick Tips
- Carry extra spare tires, lava rock is rough on tires
- Carry a GPS with land ownership data to stay on land open to hunting
- Be willing to walk away from roads to find places that other hunters haven't




Hunters have shared mixed experiences regarding Idaho's Unit 52A, noting varied success in spotting game, particularly elk, and emphasizing the importance of being prepared for challenging terrain. Many recommend scouting the area extensively prior to the season to understand game movement, with reports suggesting that the elk tend to stay at higher elevations early in the season. Some hunters expressed concerns about hunting pressure, advising patience and strategic timing to avoid crowded trails. Overall, knowledge of the terrain and flexible planning are crucial for a successful hunt in Unit 52A.
Antelope, mule deer and elk are hunted in this area, which is mostly high desert terrain covered by sagebrush, wild grasses, junipers and lava rock in a triangle with Arco, Minidoka and Shoshone at or near the corners.
This unit produces some big mule deer. Elk numbers are kept low to minimize impacts on private farms.