When it comes to chasing bugling bulls and creating unforgettable memories in the wild, every serious hunter wants to know: what is the Best Elk Hunting State? While several states offer high-quality elk hunts, a few consistently rise to the top for their combination of elk population, hunting opportunities, public land access, and overall experience. Whether you’re a seasoned bowhunter or planning your first rifle elk adventure, identifying the Best Elk Hunting State depends on your goals, preferences, and the type of hunt you’re after.
Colorado: The Most Accessible Best Elk Hunting State
Colorado is often called the Best Elk Hunting State because it has the largest elk population in North America—over 280,000 strong. The state also offers more over-the-counter (OTC) elk tags than any other, making it a popular destination for DIY hunters.
Hunters can choose from archery, muzzleloader, and multiple rifle seasons, with hunting opportunities spread across a wide variety of terrain—from high alpine meadows to expansive sagebrush basins. Colorado’s Game Management Units (GMUs) offer both public and private land hunting options, making it flexible for different skill levels and budgets.
Arizona: Trophy Potential in the Best Elk Hunting State for Quality
If you’re looking for monster bulls and high success rates, Arizona ranks among the Best Elk Hunting States for quality. Although tags are difficult to draw due to high demand and a lottery-based system, those lucky enough to hunt in Arizona often encounter world-class bulls, especially in units like 9, 10, and 23.
Arizona’s elk habitat consists of high desert, pine forests, and rugged mountains, offering both scenic beauty and excellent hunting conditions. The state’s strict tag limits and effective wildlife management help maintain its reputation as a premier trophy elk destination.
New Mexico: Flexibility and Opportunity in a Top Elk Hunting State
New Mexico is another contender for the Best Elk Hunting State thanks to its unique draw system and high bull-to-cow ratios. While many tags are lottery-based, the state also offers landowner permits and opportunities to hire an outfitter and access private land.
What makes New Mexico appealing is the diversity of habitat—ranging from desert mesas to alpine forests—and the ability to hunt during the rut in many units. Elk densities are strong, and trophy potential is excellent, particularly in the Gila and Sacramento Mountains.
Montana: Big Landscapes and Classic Elk Country
Montana is widely regarded as one of the Best Elk Hunting States due to its vast public lands, remote hunting terrain, and strong elk populations. The state offers both general tags and limited-entry units, with opportunities for residents and non-residents alike.
From the Bitterroot Valley to the Bob Marshall Wilderness, Montana provides some of the most traditional elk hunting experiences in the country. If you’re after a challenging hunt in rugged backcountry with a chance at a mature bull, Montana belongs high on your list.
Idaho: Underrated and Full of Potential
While it may fly under the radar compared to its neighbors, Idaho deserves a spot among the Best Elk Hunting States. It offers OTC tags, vast areas of huntable public land, and a mix of high-altitude wilderness and lower elevation forests.
Idaho has both Rocky Mountain and Roosevelt elk, depending on the region, and offers both archery and rifle seasons. For hunters willing to put in the work, Idaho provides a rewarding and often less crowded elk hunting experience.
Wyoming: Big Bulls and Beautiful Country
Wyoming rounds out the list of Best Elk Hunting States thanks to its excellent elk herd health and strong management practices. While many tags require preference points, some general licenses are available to non-residents. Wyoming is home to some of the West’s biggest bulls, especially in areas near Yellowstone and the Wind River Range.
The state also offers outstanding opportunities for backcountry hunters and those looking to hire outfitters for a guided hunt. With its scenic landscapes and strong elk numbers, Wyoming is a favorite for many elk hunters.
Choosing Your Best Elk Hunting State
The Best Elk Hunting State for one hunter may not be the same for another. It depends on whether you prioritize access, trophy quality, draw odds, terrain type, or hunting pressure. Colorado stands out for accessibility and numbers, Arizona and New Mexico shine for quality, and states like Montana and Idaho deliver wild, DIY adventure.