Contents
- 1 1. Colorado: The Elk Hunter’s Launchpad
- 2 2. Montana: Rugged, Wild, and Consistent
- 3 3. Wyoming: Balanced Tags and High Quality Hunts
- 4 4. Arizona: Dream Destination for Trophy Bulls
- 5 5. New Mexico: Random Draw, Big Rewards
- 6 6. Utah: Consistently Producing Trophy Bulls
- 7 How to Choose the Right State for Elk Hunting
- 8 Final Thoughts
Elk hunting has a strong tradition in the US, with thousands of hunters heading out each fall looking for their next big adventure. If you’re planning your next elk hunt, choosing where to go matters a lot. Local elk populations, access to public land, chances for both resident and nonresident hunters, and the odds of finding a trophy bull all play into picking the right state.
QUICK LOOK: Top Elk Hunting States in the US
- Colorado: Colorado is the best-known state for elk hunting in the US. What makes it so popular is the sheer size of its elk population (over 280,000 elk according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife), plus the huge amount of public land available for hunters.
- Montana: home to wide open spaces, mountain wilderness, and some of the most consistent quality hunting in the lower 48. The average elk density is lower than in Colorado, but Montana makes up for it with better trophy potential and a wilder experience.
- Wyoming: Wyoming offers a nice balance of public and private land options. Management here leans toward quality over quantity. If you’re dreaming of a bull that scores well, Wyoming probably deserves a spot on your short list.
- Arizona: Great genetics and solid habitat management have created a hunting scene that attracts dedicated hunters from all over. There’s a catch, though; tags are hard to get for nonresidents, and application deadlines and point systems mean you’ll probably wait years for a prime unit.
- New Mexico: The state produces some very impressive bulls, and hunting opportunities include both private land permits and standard public land draws. If you value trophy potential, want access to guided hunts, or just like taking a chance every year, New Mexico is a good pick.
- Utah: Utah’s best known for high-density bull elk herds on specific units, and the state routinely ranks in the top tier for Boone & Crockett entries. If you’re willing to put in the time and research, you could find yourself on a hunt of a lifetime. The general tag hunts are an option, too, but trophy chances are mostly found in the draw areas.
I know how important it is to understand these factors when making a hunting plan. Not every state offers the same experience. Some make it easy to get a tag, while others are much more selective but reward patience and preparation with a real shot at a giant bull.
This guide covers the top states for elk hunting in the US. I’ll break down each area’s strengths and what kind of experience you can expect so you can decide which spot fits your goals, experience, and hunting style best.
1. Colorado: The Elk Hunter’s Launchpad
Colorado is the best-known state for elk hunting in the US. What makes it so popular is the sheer size of its elk population (over 280,000 elk according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife), plus the huge amount of public land available for hunters. I find that both new and returning elk hunters enjoy the flexible tag system here. Many game units offer over-the-counter (OTC) archery or rifle tags for certain seasons, so you don’t necessarily have to draw a tag to plan your hunt.
Hunting pressure can be high in OTC areas, especially early in the season, but there’s also plenty of opportunity. If you’re after a first-time elk hunt or just want to increase your odds of success without a complicated application process, Colorado’s setup is really appealing. The state has some trophy animals, but it’s more about a steady shot at a mature bull than chasing the absolute biggest racks in the country.
Colorado also caters to different types of hunters; whether you’re looking to hunt solo with a bow, team up with friends on a rifle outing, or bring your family along for a multi-generational hunt, there’s plenty of room and opportunity. The state also has a tradition of mentoring new hunters, making it a solid spot for those just starting their elk hunting adventures. With multiple public land options, including National Forests and BLM lands, there’s always a new area to check out and gain experience.
Key Benefits:
- Largest elk herd in the world
- Tons of public land for DIY hunts
- Affordable, easy to get tags for many hunts
- Decent odds for nonresidents
2. Montana: Rugged, Wild, and Consistent
Montana sits at the top of many elk hunters’ wish lists. I get why; it’s home to wide open spaces, mountain wilderness, and some of the most consistent quality hunting in the lower 48. The average elk density is lower than in Colorado, but Montana makes up for it with better trophy potential and a wilder experience.
The state has a general license system for residents and a draw for nonresidents. Drawing a nonresident elk license isn’t always guaranteed, but the odds aren’t as steep as in places like Arizona. Seasons are long, offering both archery and firearm opportunities, and large tracts of public land are open for hunting.
Montana’s landscape ranges from sprawling prairies to rugged mountain ranges, so every hunt can bring something new. Many hunters say you get a true taste of North American wilderness here, whether you’re camping deep in the backcountry or glassing from ridgelines. The tradition of respectful, ethical hunting runs deep, and even if you don’t connect with a bull every trip, you’ll likely carry home incredible memories.
Key Benefits:
- Vast wilderness and mountain settings
- Long seasons for archery and rifle
- Solid elk numbers and herd health
- Good shot at mature bulls
3. Wyoming: Balanced Tags and High Quality Hunts
Wyoming is well known for strong elk herds and a balanced approach to hunting management, which helps maintain both quality and opportunity. I appreciate the state’s mix of accessible general tags and special draw hunts. Nonresidents have to navigate a draw for licenses, but the odds are manageable compared to states with stricter quotas.
Wyoming offers a nice balance of public and private land options. Management here leans toward quality over quantity. If you’re dreaming of a bull that scores well, Wyoming probably deserves a spot on your short list. The tag price is a bit higher than in some other states, so it’s something to factor into your hunting budget.
The diversity of terrain, from high elevation plateaus to meandering river valleys, means experienced hunters can pick their challenge, while newcomers can still find success with careful planning. Whether you go DIY or link up with a guide, Wyoming’s stable herd numbers and reputation for healthy populations keep it high on every hunter’s list.
Key Benefits:
- Strong herd management
- Consistent trophy opportunity
- General and special tag systems
- Moderate draw odds for nonresidents
4. Arizona: Dream Destination for Trophy Bulls
If your main goal is to chase a real trophy bull, Arizona is hard to beat. The state is famous for producing some of the biggest elk in North America. Great genetics and solid habitat management have created a hunting scene that attracts dedicated hunters from all over. There’s a catch, though; tags are hard to get for nonresidents, and application deadlines and point systems mean you’ll probably wait years for a prime unit.
Late-season archery and rifle hunts can sometimes have better odds, but in general, you’ll need patience (and possibly a bit of luck). When you do draw an Arizona elk tag, you’re in for a high-quality experience where seeing huge bulls is a real possibility. Guided hunts can help improve your odds and experience in unfamiliar terrain.
Arizona’s landscapes are eye-catching, ranging from ponderosa pine forests to red rock canyons. Yes, patience is needed, but if you finally get your chance in this state, it’s a memorable adventure. Many hunters choose to build points over several years here while hunting other states to keep their skills fresh.
Key Benefits:
- Top-end trophy bull potential
- Carefully managed for quality
- Demanding draw system
- Fantastic scenery and habitat
5. New Mexico: Random Draw, Big Rewards
New Mexico takes a different approach than other states. Rather than relying on a point system, all applications go into a random draw, which means even new hunters have a shot at drawing a great tag every year. This creates excitement and a level playing field, though you may have to try several times before hitting the jackpot.
The state produces some very impressive bulls, and hunting opportunities include both private land permits and standard public land draws. If you value trophy potential, want access to guided hunts, or just like taking a chance every year, New Mexico is a good pick.
New Mexico’s varied habitats, from aspen-covered mountains to sagebrush flats, offer plenty of adventure. Hunters often comment on the friendliness and supportiveness of the local hunting community, and guides in this state are known for working hard to help newcomers find success. If you prefer the thrill of chance, this lottery setup has a unique appeal each season.
Key Benefits:
- No preference or bonus points; luck of the draw
- Strong trophy history
- Archery and rifle options
- Good mix of habitat types
6. Utah: Consistently Producing Trophy Bulls
Utah deserves a mention for its impressive record of producing trophy-class elk, especially on managed units. The limited entry system means you can spend years building points, but the payoff can be huge. Utah’s best known for high-density bull elk herds on specific units, and the state routinely ranks in the top tier for Boone & Crockett entries.
I see Utah as a spot for the patience-minded hunter. If you’re willing to put in the time and research, you could find yourself on a hunt of a lifetime. The general tag hunts are an option, too, but trophy chances are mostly found in the draw areas.
Utah’s diversity—from alpine meadows to dry canyonlands—offers plenty of variety. If you’re committed to chasing a record-book bull, Utah’s all about preparation and waiting for the right opportunity. During your wait, you can get involved with the state’s thriving hunting community or even volunteer for local habitat work days to help elk and meet new friends.
Key Benefits:
- High trophy bull density in managed units
- Point system with long-term planning needed
- Quality habitats from mountain to desert
- Steady record of producing massive bulls
How to Choose the Right State for Elk Hunting
Your best pick really depends on your goals and how you like to hunt. If you want the most accessible elk hunting with the highest chance to just get out and hunt, Colorado is probably the way to go. For wide open landscapes and a classic big game feel, Montana and Wyoming stand out. If you’re chasing a monster bull and have lots of patience (and willingness to navigate draws and point systems), then Arizona or Utah should be on your radar. New Mexico is great for those who like taking a yearly lottery shot at something special.
Factors to Consider:
- Budget (tag costs, travel, guide fees if any)
- Tag availability and draw odds
- Your level of experience and preferred hunting style
- Desire for DIY versus guided hunts
- Trophy versus general harvest goals
I always recommend reading the latest regulations from each state’s wildlife agency; sites like Colorado Parks and Wildlife or Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks have up-to-date info. Careful research helps you have a legal, successful hunt and makes the most of your time in the field.
Final Thoughts
Elk hunting in the US gives hunters a huge range of experiences, from the easy access public lands of Colorado to the high-stakes trophy hunts in Arizona and Utah. There’s something out there for all types of hunters, and choosing the right state is a key step in making sure your hunt lives up to your expectations. My advice is to set your priorities, do your research, and have realistic goals; your perfect elk hunting spot is out there.
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