The discussion on the Area 6 unit in Wyoming clarifies the complexities surrounding access and hunting permissions, particularly regarding the distinctions between general and limited quota tags. A key takeaway is that limited quota tags allow hunting on National Forest land, whereas general tags, including for archery, do not, creating less access and likely affecting success rates due to altered elk movement and migration patterns. Some hunters expressed confusion due to unclear descriptions in official information, with suggestions for clearer communication using terms like "outside" or "inside" the National Forest. Practical advice from local hunters highlights that while backpack hunting is challenging due to recreational use, specialized knowledge and resources like OnX can help in navigating permissions and optimizing hunting opportunities, particularly in accessing private lands.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Elk | 260"-300" | 310"+ |
High
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This area has a lot of BLM and state land, as well as a portion of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. It is bordered by U.S. Highway 287 on the west and Wyoming Highway 34 on the north. This unit is littered with private lands, so utilizing GOHUNT maps will be key for finding the best access to public lands.
There is moderate to rugged terrain here, and elk can be found throughout the unit. This unit is big with a lot of country to hunt.
This land reaches from Wyoming Highway 34, south across the desert and to the Colorado state line. Terrain here is not as rugged at lower elevations, but becomes steep and more difficult to hike through in the mountains.
Public access in this unit is good, with several well-maintained roads, a network of BLM roads, forest roads and smaller two track roads. Most roads here are in good shape, with a few passable only with four-wheel drive or ATVs. Packing in with horses or backpack hunting is possible, but day hunts are more common. Some good maintained roads within this unit are Eagle Rock Road, Telephone Road, Forest Service Roads 707 and 700.
The desert habitat here is dominated by sagebrush, grass and mountain shrubs. Creek bottoms have a lot of willows, cottonwood and aspen. Mountain vegetation consists of timbered slopes of limber pine, lodgepole pine, ponderosa pine, subalpine fir and scattered pockets of aspen.
Laramie and Cheyenne are the closest towns, and have options for lodging. Groceries, gas and other stores can be found here as well. Camping is allowed on all public ground for up to 16 days in one location. Hunters can camp in remote locations.
Roughly 2187 square miles
16% public land
Elevations from 5,000-8,900 feet