Hunters shared mixed sentiments about the Manti/San Rafael unit in Utah, with insights that could prove valuable for those considering a hunt there. While the unit features substantial vehicular access, some areas, particularly deep canyons, offer a semblance of a backcountry experience that archery hunters might appreciate. Notably, Skyline Drive is a popular route with abundant game, though it can become overcrowded, especially on opening weekends, raising safety concerns. Hunters recommend focusing efforts post-weekend to find solitude and better potential for successful hunts, emphasizing the need for physical fitness due to challenging terrain and altitude. Overall, while the unit may provide memorable experiences, hunters should prepare for diverse conditions and potential challenges, from the terrain to crowd management.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
High
Low
Located in the central part of the state, this unit has good genetics and deer numbers. With moderate terrain and good public access, this is a unit that can be good for hunters wanting to pursue mature mule deer bucks.
This is a general deer unit managed for hunter opportunity but still holds good bucks. Good public access throughout unit.
One of the larger units in the state, it has a huge variation in terrain and habitat. The Wasatch Plateau runs north and south down through the entire west side of this unit. On top of the mountain range there are large meadows and flats. Off of the mountain, there are steep creek drainages leading down to the valley floor. Just up from the valley floor are rolling foot hills. With all of the ridges, foothills and drainages there are a lot of areas for game to hide where they may not get pressured. Much of the eastern part of the unit is desert and canyon country.
Much of the unit is part of the Manti-LaSal National Forest or desert land managed by the BLM, giving great public access. There is road access on all sides of the unit with well-maintained dirt roads leading to less-maintained 4-wheel-drive roads or ATV trails. The canyon roads out of Fairview, Ephraim, and Mayfield provide better access to Skyline Drive.
The low elevations on this unit are dry, desert rolling hills, flats and canyon country. Some grass, prickly-pear cactus and sagebrush with scattered pinyon pines and juniper trees. Middle elevations are covered in ponderosa pines, oak brush and the sagebrush. The higher elevations have scattered aspen groves with the steep slopes covered in conifer forests. The mountain tops have large grassy meadows with scattered ponds, thick aspen and conifer forest.
Most 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. There are several small towns spread throughout the unit that offer lodging and supplies including Fairview, Ephraim, Mt. Pleasant, Salina, and Manti.
Roughly 7,589 square miles
69% public land
Elevations from 5,000 - 11,285 feet
ATVs recommended
4-Wheel drive recommended
Arrive early for better camping locations
Expect to camp near other hunters