Hunters discussing the North Slope, Summit/West Daggett unit in Utah share valuable insights on navigating the terrain and strategies for a successful elk hunt. Many recommend focusing on the eastern part of the unit due to reduced pressure and frequent elk activity, especially around late September, as evidenced by successful hunts and sightings. Users emphasize the challenges posed by high hunting pressure and rugged terrain, advising early arrivals for tag purchases due to limited availability for rifle/muzzleloader seasons. Successful strategies include exploring deeper trails and canyons, tracking elk sign, and being prepared for unpredictable weather conditions. Collaboration and sharing of firsthand experiences, such as using cow calls and noting rub lines, provide practical advice for maximizing hunting success in this region.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Elk | Raghorn | 300"+ |
High
Low
This huge unit offers elk hunting in rugged wilderness along more accessible mountains on the north slope of the Uinta Mountains.
Hunters who put in scouting time and are willing to hike or ride horses into wilderness terrain have a good chance of finding bull elk.
Stretching along the Wyoming line from Flaming Gorge Reservoir to the Mirror Lake Highway, this unit takes in the north slope of the Uinta Mountains. The northern edge cuts through foothills and sagebrush prairies at elevations ranging from about 6,250 feet to more than 9,700 feet above sea level. Much of the mountain range exceeds 11,000 feet, with some peaks and passes exceeding 12,000 feet. Much of the terrain is rugged and rocky. A large part of the High Uintas Wilderness is inside this unit. There are many lakes, some of them above timberline, and many hold brook or cutthroat trout.
No vehicles are allowed in the High Uintas Wilderness. A good network of trails can be accessed by dirt and gravel roads. There is a lot of private land near the Wyoming border. ATVs are helpful in places, but some roads and trails are limited to vehicles no wider than 50”. Most roads, however, are open to all vehicles. Four-wheel-drive is recommended for wet weather, which is common in these high mountains. Hunters need to be aware of the weather because it can change drastically in this high elevation unit.
Alpine terrain above timberline varies from barren rock to alpine meadows full of grass, forbs, and low browse plants. Below the open terrain lie vast conifer forests. Lodgepole pines are common, but many other trees thrive here, including subalpine fir, Engelmann spruce, blue spruce, and Douglas fir. Aspen stands are common between 8,000 and 9,500 feet. Meadows are common and are full of grass and sedges. Willows are common in low, wet places. Below the forests are brush fields dominated by sagebrush with bitterbrush, snowberry, chokecherry and serviceberry. Pine beetles and forest fires have killed many trees. Good elk forage is coming in, making these areas prime hunting spots if isolated from roads.
Roughly 990 square miles
90% public land
Elevations from 6,200-12,000 feet
Hunters may camp almost anywhere in the Uintas. Check with the Uintas-Cache-Wasatch National Forest for fire closures. No fires are allowed near some lakes regardless of conditions. Hunters with horses must bring hay that is certified to be free of weeds. More than 50 campgrounds are maintained by the Forest Service. Lodging options include Bear River Lodge on the Bear River south of Evanston, Country Cabins Inn in Mountain View, Gateway Inn near Lyman, several motels in Evanston, and some small motels in Manila. There are also several campgrounds on the shores of Flaming Gorge Reservoir.