Hunting in Wyoming carries on a wild legacy rooted in centuries of tradition. From the days when Native tribes tracked bison across open plains to today’s hunters chasing elk beneath snow-capped peaks, this land continues to call those who crave the thrill of the hunt.
With millions of acres of public land, thriving game herds, and carefully managed seasons, Wyoming offers premier opportunities for elk, mule deer, antelope, bear, moose, and more. Its vast terrain, low hunting pressure, and rugged beauty create the perfect setting for unforgettable hunts.
In this guide, you’ll uncover Wyoming’s top hunting destinations, the species each region offers, and expert tips to help you plan your next adventure. Whether you aim high in the mountains or scan open prairie, Wyoming delivers the hunt of a lifetime.
Why hunt in Wyoming?
Wyoming stands out as one of North America’s premier hunting destinations. With over 22 million acres of public land, the state gives hunters access to vast, diverse terrain — from alpine peaks to open prairies. Whether you’re chasing elk in the high country or stalking pronghorn across sagebrush flats, Wyoming offers the space and variety to hunt on your terms.
Wildlife thrives here thanks to decades of conservation. Elk, mule deer, antelope, black bear, Shiras moose, and more roam in healthy numbers, allowing you to pursue multiple species in a single trip.
The state’s hunting license system includes general licenses, limited-quota tags, and preference point options for residents and nonresidents. Special programs also support youth, disabled hunters, and landowners.
At the heart of it all lies a strong hunting culture rooted in ethics, conservation, and respect for the land. When you hunt in Wyoming, you become part of a tradition built on adventure, responsibility, and deep connection to the wild.
Best time to hunt in Wyoming
Focus on timing to plan a successful Wyoming hunt. Each species follows distinct seasons, behaviors, and natural rhythms, all shaped by the region’s dynamic weather and terrain.
Elk archery season kicks off in early September, followed by rifle hunts through October and November. Deer seasons follow a similar pattern, while antelope hunts often start as early as mid-August. Black bear hunting in Wyoming opens in spring and returns in fall in select areas. Upland birds and waterfowl offer action from September into winter.
Weather plays a significant role in movement. Early seasons bring heat and limited daylight activity, but as cold fronts roll in, animals migrate to lower elevations, become more visible, and respond to calls. Snow can concentrate game and create tracking opportunities, but it also adds challenges.
Understanding rut behavior is key. Elk bugle and respond aggressively in mid-September. Mule deer rut in November, while antelope show peak activity in August and September. Align your trip with these natural windows for the best shot at success.
Top destinations for hunting in Wyoming
Wyoming’s diverse terrain and abundant wildlife create some of the most rewarding hunting grounds in the West. From alpine peaks to desert plains, each region offers a unique experience for hunters seeking adventure, challenge, and success.
Greater Yellowstone Area
This iconic region delivers some of the best elk hunting in North America. You’ll find high concentrations of elk, mule deer, and black bear throughout the mountainous forests and valleys. The terrain ranges from open meadows to thick timber, and the wildlife remains highly active during the fall rut.
Backcountry access points and designated wilderness areas provide solitude for hunters willing to hike deep into the wild.
Bighorn Mountains
The Bighorns stretch across northern Wyoming and host healthy populations of moose, whitetail deer, and mule deer. Rolling foothills give way to alpine meadows and aspen groves, making it a visually stunning place to hunt.
Road access is relatively good, but successful hunts often require glassing high basins or working through thick timber where bulls and bucks tend to hide. Early-season scouting gives you a serious edge in this region.
Wind River Range
For rugged, high-altitude Wyoming hunts, the Wind River Range challenges even experienced outdoorsmen. The area offers excellent opportunities for elk and mountain goat, particularly in remote units. Steep climbs, unpredictable weather, and limited access points demand preparation and physical endurance.
Many hunters access the wilderness on horseback or foot, and those who commit to the journey often find impressive bulls and billies in hard-to-reach places.
Medicine Bow National Forest
This southeastern region offers more accessible terrain and strong populations of pronghorn, turkey, and deer. Rolling hills, mixed conifer forests, and expansive sagebrush flats create prime habitat for multiple species.
Archery hunters enjoy early-season pronghorn in the flats, while rifle hunters find success during fall migrations. Medicine Bow offers a good mix of public access and manageable elevation, making it a favorite for hunters of all experience levels.
Red Desert
The Red Desert is renowned for world-class antelope hunting. Its vast expanse of sagebrush and open plains provides high visibility and excellent stalking opportunities. Trophy bucks roam the landscape, and draw odds for some units remain favorable with planning.
Use optics to locate distant herds, then close the gap with low-profile approaches. Early-season hunts deliver the best results before weather patterns shift animal behavior.
Snowy Range
As part of the Medicine Bow range, the Snowy Range blends alpine beauty with productive hunting. Elk and mule deer move through this region during the fall, taking advantage of open meadows, ridgelines, and evergreen pockets.
Cooler temperatures arrive early here, so pack layers and prepare for sudden storms. Backcountry routes allow you to escape pressure and target mature bulls and bucks in scenic, high-elevation basins.
Laramie Plains
If you enjoy waterfowl or upland game hunting, the Laramie Plains deserve a spot on your map. Wetlands, agricultural fields, and prairie terrain support strong populations of ducks, geese, pheasants, and grouse. Local reservoirs and creeks attract migratory birds, especially in the fall.
This area also provides ample public land and walk-in access areas, giving bird hunters room to roam with dogs and decoys.
Shoshone National Forest
As one of the oldest national forests in the country, Shoshone offers unmatched backcountry adventure. Trophy-class elk, mule deer, and bighorn sheep roam this remote region near the eastern edge of Yellowstone. Deep canyons, glacier-carved valleys, and wild rivers create dramatic scenery and physically demanding hunts.
Outfitters frequently guide hunters into this terrain, but experienced do-it-yourselfers also find success with proper planning and pack support.
Plan your Wyoming hunt with R&K Hunting
R&K Hunting Company brings decades of experience, exclusive access to private ranches, and a deep respect for ethical hunting practices. Our guides help you navigate Wyoming’s terrain, regulations, and game patterns with confidence.
If you’re ready to plan the hunt of a lifetime, contact R&K Hunting to lead the way. With expert support and a commitment to your success, your Wyoming adventure starts here.