New Mexico Unit 45 Bull Elk- Wilderness Tent Camp

At the southern end of the Rocky Mountains, you’ll find New Mexico’s Unit 45. This area includes the Santa Fe and Carson National Forests, as well as the Pecos Wilderness Area. Rugged yet breathtaking landscapes dominate the region, with elk traditionally hunted between 7,000 and 11,000 feet in elevation. Due to several large wildfires, an extensive system of meadows has developed, providing ideal feeding grounds for the elk herds that roam the area. WTA’s chosen outfitter has spent countless days hunting here, with generations of his family having done the same.

Hunters can expect to ride horseback into one of the outfitters’ remote camps within the hunting area. Camps are located anywhere from 3-8 miles off the trailhead. Once at the camp the horse will be trailed out, only returning to pack out game or upon the conclusion of the hunt. Hunters must be physically and mentally prepared for a demanding trip. The maximum group size for this trip is four.

Hunting methods will vary based on your weapon of choice. Archers can expect to use a combination of spot and stalk, ambush, and calling to get on bulls. Muzzleloader season typically takes place in early October, coinciding with the tail end of the rut. During this time, spot and stalk will be the primary method. Rifle seasons occur after the rut, and hunters can expect to spend time behind optics, scanning the vast terrain, then planning a stalk to get within shooting range. Rifle hunters should be proficient out to 400 yards. Bulls in the 280-310 class will be targeted across all seasons.

Accommodation will consist of double occupancy wall-tents with a separate tent acting as a gathering area/dining area. Tents will be equipped with wood stoves to ensure clothes can be dry and a comfortable nights sleep as the temps drop.

A tag for this hunt can be obtained in one of two ways: through New Mexico’s annual big-game draw or by purchasing a landowner voucher.

If you have questions about the hunt, need assistance with the New Mexico elk draw, or require help finding the right outfitter, WTA  is here to help. Call us at 1-800-346-8747 or click the “Request More Info” button.