Hunters discussing Area 9 in Wyoming's South Snowy Range emphasize the importance of understanding the state's draw odds and tag validity, particularly for nonresident hunters. Key insights include the openness of numerous two-track roads for ATVs, which raises the need for hunters to venture into more remote areas to find elk despite high local and off-road vehicle pressure. It is advised for hunters seeking general elk tags to achieve at least three preference points for a better draw chance, while remembering the necessity of guides in wilderness areas. For those considering reduced price cow tags, understanding the distinction between Type 6 and Type 7 tags and the land they cover is crucial, with limited National Forest access highlighting the potential need for private land arrangements.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Elk | 260"-300" | 300"+ |
High
Low
This unit is in the high plain desert and the Medicine Bow Mountain Range, located in the south-central part of the state. There are some parts of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest in this unit, as well. It is bordered by Wyoming Highway 130 on the north, Wyoming Highways 230 and 10 on the east. There is a lot of access through the majority of this unit.
Hunters can experience moderate and rugged terrain here, with elk found in the National Forest. This is a big hunt area with a lot of country to hunt. The bigger elk usually come from the more rugged and remote areas. Those willing to put in the work should find success.
This unit goes from Wyoming Highway 130, and south through the National Forest to the Colorado state line. The mountains are less rough at lower elevations, but change to steep and rugged in the Medicine Bow Mountains.
Public access in this unit is good with several well-maintained roads, a network of forest roads and smaller two track roads. Most roads 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. Fox Creek Road, Forest Road 517 and Forest Road 500 are well maintained roads in the unit.
Most of the vegetation here consists of timbered slopes with a lot of upland areas dominated by sagebrush, grass and mountain shrubs. Timber stands have limber pine, lodgepole pine, ponderosa pine, subalpine fir and scattered pockets of aspen.
Laramie is the closest town, and offers a lot of lodging options. Groceries, gas stations 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 409 square miles
62% public land
Elevations from 7,200-10,700 feet