Hunters' discussions regarding Area 89 in Wyoming reveal key insights into licensing and hunting logistics. The process involves applying for the General License and purchasing additional stamps, allowing for both archery and rifle seasons if you have a Type 1 tag. There's noteworthy concern about high hunting pressure and occasional grizzly bear presence, though the latter is relatively rare compared to other regions. Overall, Area 89 provides opportunities for both seasoned and novice hunters, but emphasizes the importance of strategic planning, especially in terms of draw odds and managing crowded conditions.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Elk | 280"-300" | 310"+ |
High
Low
This unit is located near the western edge of the state and it's a completely wilderness free unit. This means that nonresidents are not limited to where they can and can't hunt. That being said, finding more secluded area's to hunt can be a bit more challenging. The entire unit is within the Bridger-Teton National Forest and the north end of the little Grey's River runs right through the middle of it. Good numbers of elk and deer can be found here for those who are willing to put in the effort.
Hunters should expect rugged and steep terrain here with elk found throughout, this is an average-sized unit with a lot of drainages to hunt and is a good place for hunters to take branch-antlered bulls.
This unit goes from the Grey’s River and Snake River valley floors to the mountaintop divides on the east and west. Terrain here is more contoured at lower elevations, but gets steep and rugged toward the higher elevations, with timberline at roughly 9,000 feet.
Public access in this unit is excellent near Grey’s River Road and Little Grey’s River Road. There are several maintained side roads and some secondary logging roads, as well. There is also a large trail system throughout the entire area. Packing in with horses or backpack hunting is possible, but day hunts are more common. This unit is bordered by the divide between the Grey’s and Salt River on the west, and Snake River on the north. The divide next to the Grey’s River and Willow Creek/Hoback River is on the east side of the unit, with Meadow Creek and Blind Bull creek found on the south. There is no wilderness area in this unit. Some of the more popular trailheads in this unit are Bull Hollow, Murphy Creek, Stewart Trail and White Creek.
Low and middle elevations have grass, sage-covered meadows and hills mixed with Douglas fir and aspen. Higher up near timberline, the country has a lot of thick spruce fir forest, with intermittent meadows, rocky ridges and sedge-filled alpine basins.
Alpine Junction is the closest town, and has a lot of lodging options. Grocery stores, gas stations and other stores can also be found here. Camping is allowed on all public ground for up to 16 days in one location. There are several designated campgrounds located throughout the unit. Hunters can also camp in remote locations.
Roughly 258 square miles
100% public land
Elevations from 5,600–10,800 feet