Hunters interested in Area 81 - Spread Creek, Wyoming should be aware that this is a general unit accessible for rifle hunting, except for spikes, and it is entirely open to public hunting without designated wilderness restrictions. It's important to double-check current maps and state data, as confusion can arise over wilderness designations; however, current data confirms no wilderness areas within this unit, despite nearby designated zones to the north and south. Hunters have reported accessibility for nonresidents, though the application deadline for general tags should not be missed, emphasized by a January 31 cut-off each year. It's wise to be informed about recent events such as fires, which might alter elk patterns. Moreover, considering this area's specific bull-to-cow ratios, prospective hunters should strategize accordingly and account for potential competition and bear activity.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Elk | 260"-290" | 290"+ |
High
Low
Unlike the neighboring units to the north and south, unit 81 is completely wilderness free. It's still part of the Bridger-Teton National Forest and it's located just east of the Grand Teton National Park. There is a ton of access from the north and south side of this unit and plenty of amenities close by. One thing to keep in mind is that it's definitely grizzly country, so be sure to take the proper precautions. There is a healthy population of animals here and those willing to put in the effort are going to find success.
This is a rugged and steep unit with elk located throughout. This decently sized unit has lots of drainages for hunters to hunt. Grizzly bears can be found in this area.
This unit runs from the Grand Teton National Park valley floor, east to the mountaintops along the Continental Divide. The terrain here is gently contoured at lower elevations and changes to steep and rugged at higher elevations, with timberline found at roughly 9,500 feet.
Public access in this unit is good along the Gros Ventre River Road and Spread Creek Road. Several maintained side roads and some secondary logging roads that can be found here provide the area with an extensive trail system. Packing in with horses or backpack hunting is recommended, but day hunts are possible. The area is bordered by Grand Teton National Park on the west, U.S. Highway 287 on the north, the Continental Divide on the east and the North Fork of Fish Creek and Gros Ventre River on the south. Some popular trailheads within this unit are Horsetail Creek, Haystack Fork and Cottonwood Creek.
Low and middle elevations are a mix of grassy, sage covered meadows and hills mixed with Douglas fir and aspens. Higher up near timberline, the country is covered in thick Spruce fir forest with lots of grassy slopes, meadows and basins.
Jackson is the closest town to the unit and offers many options for lodging, groceries, gas, sporting goods and other amenities. Camping is allowed on all public ground for up to 16 days in one location. Several designated campgrounds can be found throughout the unit. Hunters can also camp in remote locations within the unit.
Roughly 351 square miles
99% public land
Elevations from 6,800–10,700 feet
Red Hills, Crystal Creek and Lava Creek are public campgrounds