Area 125 in Elk Mountain, Wyoming, presents significant challenges for hunters due to limited public access, with much of the land locked by private properties. Encouragingly, hunters are advised to directly contact local game and fish officials for guidance on potential access through private landowners, as communication could reveal options not immediately apparent. Several hunters express frustration with corner crossing complexities and potential legal repercussions, though it's beneficial to note that Wyoming Game and Fish's policy suggests non-intervention in such cases, despite remaining challenges with local law enforcement. Hunters are generally advised to consider other units with easier public access, unless they have established arrangements with private landholders for Area 125.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Elk | 280"-310" | 320"+ |
High
Low
Made up of high plains desert and Elk Mountain in the south central part of the state, this unit has a fair amount of checker-boarded BLM and access can be challenging at times. Elk live in limited numbers here but herd health is good and there is a good chance of finding and killing a mature bull.
This is a unit of moderate/rugged terrain with elk located mainly on Elk Mountain and surrounding foothills. Limited public lands can make the hunt challenging at times but good hard hunting can still lead to success.
This unit stretches from Hanna Junction to Pass Creek Canyon. Elevations range from 6,600 feet to 11,000 feet. The area is gently contoured at lower elevations and changes to steep and rugged terrain on and around Elk Mountain. Physical preparation will be important for this area and hunters should be prepared to cover a lot of ground to initially find huntable populations.
Public access in this unit is limited. Checker-boarded private, state and BLM lands cover most of the area. Private lands surround Elk Mountain making it difficult to gain access. The area has several well-maintained roads, a network of BLM roads and smaller 2-tracks, but a GPS with land ownership layer and some research will be required to successfully navigate the unit. The area is bordered by Wyoming Highway 130 on the west, U.S. highway 287 on the north, Wyoming Highway 72 and County Road 404 on the east and south.
Vegetation on Elk Mountain is intermittent timbered slopes with many upland areas covered in sagebrush, grass and mountain shrubs. Timber stands are made up of limber pine, lodgepole pine, Ponderosa pine, Sub-Alpine fir, Rocky Mountain juniper and scattered pockets of aspen.
Laramie is the closest town to the unit and offers different 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.
Roughly 289 square miles
33% public land
Elevations from 6,600-11,000 feet