Skip to content

Top 10 · Compare

Compare Top Montana Public Land Elk Units head to head

Pick any two picks from this list and see specs, current price, pros, cons and reader ratings side by side.

Share
Follow
Back to the full Top 10
Hunting District 310

#9 on this list

Hunting District 310

Montana, USA

HD 310 is located in the Bridger Mountains just north of Bozeman. This unit is known for its steep, challenging terrain but also for consistent elk populations. It's largely within the Gallatin National Forest. Due to its proximity to Bozeman, it receives significant pressure, especially on weekends. However, determined hunters willing to climb and get off the main trails can find success. Elk often hold in dense timber and steep drainages. Early season (archery) can be good, and snow often pushes elk to accessible areas in the late season. General elk tag. Standard state hunting license and conservation stamp fees.

Price
Check current price
Reader rating
No reader votes yet
How we assessed it
Specification researched
Hunting District 390

#10 on this list

Hunting District 390

Montana, USA

HD 390, covering parts of the Elkhorn Mountains south of Helena, offers a classic public land elk hunting experience. The unit is primarily within the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. It's characterized by steep, timbered slopes and some open parks. Access is decent via forest service roads. Elk populations are solid, and the unit consistently produces. Like many accessible units, hunting pressure can be high, particularly during the general rifle season. Success often comes from hiking into roadless areas or patiently hunting dense cover. Expect variable weather and a good workout. General elk tag. Fees for licenses and stamps.

Price
Check current price
Reader rating
No reader votes yet
How we assessed it
Specification researched

Specs side by side

Hunting District 310 versus Hunting District 390 specifications
SpecHunting District 310Hunting District 390
LocationBridger Mountains, North of Bozeman, MontanaElkhorn Mountains, S of Helena, MT
Primary Land UseGallatin National Forest—
TerrainSteep, timbered slopes, deep drainages, rocky peaksSteep timber, open parks, mountainous
Elk PopulationConsistent presence, often high density—
Primary TagMontana General Elk Tag—
AccessGood road access, challenging interior travelForest service roads
Primary Land—Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest
Primary Game—Elk (general tag)
Elevation Range—Approx. 4,500-9,400 ft

What our reviewers liked and didn't

Hunting District 310

  • Consistent elk populations
  • Public land accessible with general tag
  • Challenging terrain rewards dedicated hunters
  • Proximity to Bozeman offers amenities
  • High hunter pressure, especially weekends
  • Very steep and physically demanding terrain
  • Elk often hold in thick, difficult cover
  • Grizzly bear presence requires vigilance

Hunting District 390

  • Consistent elk populations on public land
  • Diverse terrain offers varied hunting strategies
  • Good network of forest service road access
  • Opportunity to harvest a general elk tag animal
  • High hunting pressure during peak seasons
  • Rugged terrain demands significant physical exertion
  • Variable weather conditions can be challenging
  • Significant roadless areas require deep hikes

Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.