Hunters have shared a diverse array of experiences and information on Wyoming's Area 45 - Paint Rock Creek, highlighting its significant appeal for both archery and rifle seasons. Despite some hunters not filling tags due to challenges such as late rut activity or not sealing the deal in archery, the area is often noted for its promising elk presence and vast public terrain outside the wilderness. Strategies mentioned include using detailed draw odds data to navigate Wyoming's complex point system, alongside recommendations for scouting and understanding potential hunting pressure. However, it's crucial to stay updated on regulations, especially regarding non-resident hunting without a guide in wilderness areas, and to be prepared for point creep affecting draw odds.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Elk | 300"-330" | 340"+ |
High
Low
Located near the southwestern end of the Bighorn Mountains in north central Wyoming, this area offers limited hunting opportunities for a small but stable population of elk. This area has some wilderness, but a lot of public land is available for hunters.
This can be a good hunt for DIY nonresident who wants the possibility to take a mature bull. Wilderness areas cannot be hunted without an outfitter or accompanying resident guide. Rough country can be found here, but it is not as demanding as other units to the west. Bowhunting for rutting bulls during the September archery season can be successful.
The higher elevations within the Cloud Peak Wilderness area are rugged, rocky mountain peaks with some pine pockets and grassy meadows. At lower elevations ridges and valleys are covered with heavy timber and grassy meadows. Several high mountain lakes can be found within the unit. Dropping off in elevation to the west toward Worland, broken canyon country, rolling sagebrush steppes and grasslands near the valley floor can be found.
Wilderness
Under Wyoming law nonresidents are not permitted to hunt big game or trophy game in any federally designated wilderness areas without the presence of a licensed guide or resident companion. The resident companion must first get a free non-commercial guide license from a Game and Fish office. The law does not prohibit nonresidents from hiking, fishing or hunting game birds, small game, or coyotes in wilderness areas.
Good access is provided by Highway 16 that runs through the unit. Several USFS roads near Meadowlark Lake allow access to both the northern and southern portions of the unit. A good map is necessary for navigating the unit. Maps with land ownership and hunting unit boundaries overlaid is recommended.
Typical trees include lodgepole pine, Douglas fir and subalpine fir. At higher elevations wet meadow grasses, forbs, sedges and willows can be found. A variety of grasses, forbs and some sagebrush is found throughout mid elevations. Grasses include wheatgrass species, fescue, bluegrass, needle and thread and ricegrass.
Worland on the southwestern boundary has lodging, food, groceries and gas. Ten Sleep has limited lodging and restaurants. Buffalo east of the unit has food, gas and lodging. Several campgrounds are located just off of Highway 16 including Leigh, South Fork and Tie Hack campgrounds. Camping is allowed on public lands.
Roughly 779 square miles
83% public land
Elevations from 3,900-13,100 feet
12.1% Wilderness