Elk Hunting
Rocky Mountain elk or wapiti exist throughout the southern, central and northern Rockies.  Most elk herds are migratory and spend the summers in high alpine habitats and move to lower elevations in the fall to winter ranges.  Most elk hunting occurs during the breeding season or rut via archery seasons and during the fall migratory periods.  Given the movement of the herds relative to current weather conditions, elk hunters can expect to find elk just about anywhere on the mountain. 

Early season scouting can greatly increase your chances of elk hunting success.  Many elk herds are at all time highs in the west so look for lot's of antlerless (cow and calf) elk hunting opportunity.  Elk meat is literally treasured by most westerners so don't worry too much about finding a bull when the local elk hunting regulations will allow you take a cow or a calf.  As a hunter you cannot bring home a finer tasting healthy meat for the table so be sure and look for these ample cow and calf elk hunting opportunities and season dates by State. Remember that the weather can change in an instant, so be prepared.

Where to Hunt Elk
Some of the best elk hunting in North America occurs on private agricultural lands in the mountain foothills throughout the western landscapes.  That means you have to spend some time before your elk hunt developing a relationship that will provide you elk hunting access in the fall.  A little time on your part and a wedge of good cheese or some fine coffee for the hard working ranch family can often go along ways to open gates for you in the fall. 

Colorado, Idaho and Montana all have record high elk population levels.  Montana's Block Management Program offers numerous opportunities for elk hunting access.  Idaho's public land wilderness areas offer remote and rugged access to elk herds that number in the thousands.  If you are after big bulls be sure to apply to the drawings offered in New Mexico and Colorado and take a chance on winning the chance to harvest a record book bull elk in the southwest.  Regardless of your elk hunting preference be sure and take the time to explore the links to elk hunting websites on this page.