FULLY GUIDED BACKCOUNTRY

 ELK/DEER HUNT GEAR LIST

On your fully guided hunt, we provide camp, meals, stock, and pack-out services. Please bring the following personal gear to ensure a safe, comfortable, and successful experience in the backcountry.

HUNTING EQUIPMENT

• Rifle (properly sighted in) or bow
• Ammunition / broadheads (extra recommended)
• Weapon sling (archery hunters should bring a bow sling)
• Binoculars (10x recommended)
• Rangefinder
• Hunting knife
• Headlamp (with extra batteries)
• Elk calls (optional for archery)
• Valid hunting license & tag

CLOTHING (Layering System Recommended)

Base Layers

• Moisture-wicking tops & bottoms
• 3–4 pairs wool socks
• Broken-in waterproof boots

Insulation

• Fleece or wool mid-layer
• Insulated jacket (down or synthetic)

Outerwear

• Waterproof rain jacket
• Durable hunting pants
• Lightweight gloves + insulated gloves
• Warm beanie
• Brimmed cap

Recommended Extras

• Gaiters
• Camp shoes
• Extra socks

PERSONAL CAMP ITEMS

• Sleeping bag (rated 0°–20° depending on season)
• Small pillow
• Toiletries & medications
• Towel
• Personal snacks (optional)

DAY PACK ESSENTIALS

• Small daypack
• Water bottle or hydration bladder
• Personal first aid kit
• Blister care
• Sunscreen & lip balm
• Sunglasses
• Trekking poles (recommended)

IMPORTANT NOTES

• Elk country is steep and rugged — physical preparation is encouraged.
• Weather can change quickly; be prepared for rain or snow.
• Pack efficiently and avoid unnecessary gear.

DIY BACKCOUNTRY ELK HUNT GEAR LIST

This is a self-guided backcountry hunt. Hunters are fully responsible for food, personal gear, field dressing and quartering of game, and daily camp responsibilities. Please review this list carefully and come prepared.

HUNTING EQUIPMENT

• Rifle (properly sighted in) or bow
• Ammunition / broadheads (extra recommended)
• Weapon sling (bow sling strongly recommended)
• Binoculars (10x recommended)
• Rangefinder
• Elk calls
• Headlamp (with extra batteries)
• Valid hunting license, tag & hunter education card

GAME CARE & PROCESSING

• 2 quality hunting knives
• Knife sharpener or replaceable blades
• Bone saw (optional)
• Heavy-duty breathable game bags
• Paracord (50–100 ft recommended)
• Lightweight tarp (for clean processing area)
• Disposable gloves
• Citric acid spray (optional)
• Flagging tape or GPS

FOOD & COOKING

• All personal food for duration of hunt
• High-calorie snacks
• Coffee & drink mixes
• Personal cooking items (if desired beyond camp setup)
• Cooler at trailhead for meat transport

CLOTHING (Layering System Required)

Base Layers

• Moisture-wicking tops & bottoms
• 3–4 pairs wool socks
• Waterproof, broken-in boots

Insulation

• Fleece or wool mid-layer
• Insulated jacket

Outerwear

• Waterproof rain jacket & pants
• Durable hunting pants
• Lightweight gloves + insulated gloves
• Warm beanie
• Brimmed cap

Recommended

• Gaiters
• Camp shoes
• Extra socks

PERSONAL CAMP ITEMS

• Sleeping bag (rated 0°–20° depending on season)
• Pillow
• Toiletries & medications
• Towel
• Baby wipes
• Personal first aid kit (include blister care)
• Portable Power Bank

DAY PACK ESSENTIALS

• Internal frame pack (for hauling meat if necessary)
• Water bottles or hydration bladder
• Trekking poles (recommended)
• Sunscreen & lip balm
• Sunglasses
• Satellite communication device (strongly recommended)

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

• This is a physically demanding hunt in rugged terrain.
• You are responsible for cooking, firewood, and proper field care of your animal.
• Weather conditions can change quickly — be prepared for rain or snow.
• Pack efficiently but do not leave out essential safety gear.

BACKCOUNTRY HUNTS

Physical Requirements & Fitness Expectations

Backcountry hunting takes place in steep, rugged mountain terrain and requires a solid level of physical conditioning. Hunters should arrive prepared for multiple consecutive days of hiking and elevation changes in varying weather conditions.

Clients Should Be Able To:

• Hike 5–8 miles per day in uneven, mountainous terrain
• Climb and descend steep slopes at elevations ranging from 8,000–11,000+ feet
• Carry a daypack weighing 20–40 lbs for extended periods
• Maintain steady movement for several hours at a time
• Step over deadfall, rocks, and navigate off-trail terrain
• Withstand cold mornings, warm afternoons, and possible snow or rain
• Recover and repeat physical effort for multiple consecutive days
• 
  

Recommended Conditioning Prior to Hunt:

• Cardiovascular training (hiking, stair climbing, incline treadmill, cycling)
• Strength training focused on legs, core, and lower back
• Weighted pack hikes before arrival
• Breaking in boots well before the hunt
• Training at elevation if possible

Important Notes:

• Elk and high-country hunts are physically demanding and mentally challenging.
• Success often depends on your ability to move efficiently and safely in rugged terrain.
• Hunters who arrive in good physical condition have a safer, more enjoyable experience and greater opportunity for success.