The discussion around the Henry Mountains, Utah hunting unit reveals significant changes to the archery bison hunts, with confusion arising from adjustments to season timings and availability. The January archery hunt poses challenges due to difficult weather, earlier gun hunts, and high-elevation bison habitats, which some hunters have found unexpectedly rewarding despite the obstacles. There's a sentiment of frustration regarding information clarity and hunting policy, but also acknowledgment of the longstanding complexity of these hunts, with experienced hunters and outfitters offering support and guidance. Constructive engagement, such as attending meetings or consulting with local legislators, is advised for addressing concerns about hunting policies, while seasoned guides remain a resource for increasing hunt success.
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The Henry Mountains offer a unique experience to hunt free ranging bison. Several mature bulls roam the unit and different herds can be found. Some of the bison live in steep and rugged terrain making for a physically challenging experience. Some hunters use horses to hunt the remote canyons of the unit during late seasons.
This unit is strictly managed for trophy-class animals, giving hunters an opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime trophy. Bison are found in different elevations at different times of the year.
The Henry Mountain Range has the high point of Mount Ellen Peak at 11,522 feet above sea level. There are deep canyons that run off of the peaks down to the rolling foothills. The lower hills and valleys are dry, cut up canyon country leading to the Colorado River and Lake Powell on the south end of the unit.
Although there is some private property within the unit, much of it is BLM or state land and offers good public access. There are numerous dirt roads that wind throughout the unit. The main access on the west side of the unit can be found at Notom Bullfrog Road, and on the east is Highway 95. The Sawmill Basin road provides access to Mount EllenThere are some wilderness study areas that do not allow vehicle travel. Capitol Reef National Park recently allowed access to bison hunters on the Swap Canyon and Bitter Creek Canyon trails, limited to foot and horse travel only.
Low elevations in this unit have dry, desert rolling hills and flats. Some grass, prickly pear cactus and sagebrush with scattered pinyon pines and juniper trees. Middle elevations are covered in ponderosa pines and oak brush while sagebrush continues throughout this elevation as well. Higher elevations have scattered small aspen groves with steep slopes covered in conifer forests. Peaks are covered in grass, wildflowers, and rocky shale.
Many hunters camp along roads. There are several locations that have good, flat camping locations for travel trailers or tents. There are a couple of designated campgrounds open to the public. Hanksville is the nearest town, but is a good distance from hunting areas.
Roughly 1,345 square miles
98% public land
Elevations from 5,000-11,522 feet
ATV recommended
Four-wheel drive recommended
Arrive early for better camping locations
Expect to camp near other hunters