Hunters have expressed mixed sentiments about Area 11 in Wyoming, with some highlighting concerns about the accuracy of the bull-to-cow ratio and the heavy hunting pressure. Many believe the unit is densely wooded, which presents a unique challenge, making it more of a mental game given limited visibility and the need to navigate thick timber. The season has varied success rates, with the first two weeks of September being generally favorable for spotting elk, though later in the season, elk are mostly driven into deep timber due to pressure from hunters. Despite the challenges, those who venture farther from roads and into less accessible areas often find opportunities, though few suggest this unit is worth expending high nonresident points for, recommending instead a general tag for potentially similar outcomes.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Elk | 270"-310" | 310"+ |
High
Low
This unit is found in the south-central portion of the state and features a good offering of public lands and a small, but healthy, herd of elk. Most of this area is high plains desert on the north end but it is largely mountainous and rugged to the south. Hunting in this unit will be glassing and physically intensive and hunters will need to be prepared to cover some ground in search of elk.
This is a small area with moderate/rugged terrain and lots of country to hunt. Elk are located mainly on the National Forest on the southern end of the unit but small groups can also be found to the north.
The northern half of this unit is largely composed of high plains desert which consists of large expanses of prairie grasses that are broken and varied by many coulees, draws, and large ridgelines. The southern end is much more mountainous with heavily timbered areas increasing in elevation as you move south. Most of the timbered areas are rolling with small undulations in the terrain but will still be physically taxing.
Public access in this unit is good and has several well maintained roads, a network of Forest Roads and smaller 2-tracks. Most roads are well maintained, with a few passable only with four-wheel-drive vehicles or ATVs. Packing in with horses or backpack hunting is possible, but day hunts are more common. The area is bordered by Interstate 80 on the north, Rock Creek, Deep Creek and the divide between the Laramie River and Medicine Bow River on the east and County Road 103, 100, 101 and 261 on the west.
The vegetation found here is intermittent timbered slopes with many upland areas covered by sagebrush, grass and mountain shrubs. Heavy timber stands to the south have limber pine, Lodgepole pine, Ponderosa pine, Sub-Alpine fir and scattered pockets of aspen.
Saratoga or Laramie are the closest towns to the unit and offer many options for lodging, groceries, gas and other amenities. Camping is allowed on all public ground for up to 16 days in one location. Hunters can camp in remote locations. Bow River and Deep Creek are public campgrounds.
Roughly 181 square miles
60% public land
Elevations from 7,200–12,000 feet