At a Glance
993Square Miles
53.3%Public Land
4,500 - 7,000Elevation Range
Quick Tips
- Carry a GPS with land ownership data
- Visit Three Rivers Petroglyph Site
- Visit Ruidoso Downs horse race track
Hunters consistently find Unit 36 in New Mexico to offer a rich hunting experience, particularly for elk, given its varied terrain and healthy game populations. Draw odds can be competitive, so early planning and a thorough understanding of seasonal patterns are crucial. Several hunters recommend scouting the area prior to the season and suggest focusing on areas where water sources are abundant as these attract game. Overall, patience and preparedness paired with knowledge of the unit's geography and wildlife behavior can significantly enhance hunting success.
Surrounding the north part of the Mescalero Apache Indian Reservation and south of Capitan, this unit yields many mature bull elk as well as some mule deer, pronghorn antelope and Barbary sheep. A good density of game game is in the Lincoln National Forest, including the White Mountain Wilderness.
This is one of the state's premier elk units and has produced many bulls. Deer, antelope, and sheep densities are low but good quality animals can sometimes be found.