#2 on this list
Cloud Peak Wilderness (Units 39/40)
Bighorn National Forest, Wyoming, USA
The Cloud Peak Wilderness, situated in the heart of the Bighorn Mountains, offers rugged, high-alpine hunting for mature mule deer. It's a land of granite peaks, glacial lakes, and dense timber, with expansive open basins above timberline. The Bighorns are often overlooked for mule deer compared to western Wyoming ranges, but the Cloud Peak Wilderness holds some impressive bucks for those willing to climb. Access points are numerous around the perimeter of the Bighorns, with trailheads originating near Buffalo, Sheridan, or Ten Sleep. A pack-in of 5-10 miles is typical to reach the prime deer country. Late archery and early rifle seasons (mid-September to early October) are ideal, coinciding with crisp, cool weather before heavy snows. This hunt demands good physical fitness, particularly for traversing steep, rocky terrain at elevations often exceeding 9,000-11,000 feet. Permits are standard Wyoming deer tags; wilderness camping permits are generally self-issue at trailheads or not required. Trade-offs include rapid weather changes, potential for early-season snow, and crowded trailheads on weekends, though the backcountry disperses hunters well. **Highlights** * Stunning alpine scenery with abundant lakes and dramatic peaks * Good numbers of quality bucks, especially in less accessible basins * Varied terrain from timbered slopes to open, rocky tundra * Relatively shorter pack-ins compared to Thorofare, but equally steep * Opportunities for high-elevation glassing for trophy animals **Watch-outs** * Steep, demanding climbs at high elevations * Sudden and severe weather shifts, including early snowstorms * Grizzly bears are present, though less common than in western WY * Limited water sources in some of the highest, exposed areas * Trailhead parking can fill up on popular weekends
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#3 on this list
Absaroka Wilderness (Units 102/105)
Shoshone National Forest, Wyoming, USA
Adjacent to Yellowstone National Park, the Absaroka Wilderness is a land of volcanic plateaus, jagged peaks, and deep canyons. This is classic Absaroka country, characterized by its unique geology, high elevations, and vast, unspoiled tracts of forest and alpine meadows. What makes it special for mule deer is the sheer amount of undisturbed habitat and the limited access, which allows bucks to grow old. Access is challenging, typically from trailheads west of Cody or Dubois, often requiring an overnight pack-in or longer to reach prime hunting grounds. The best season is late September to early October, when bucks are often beginning to stage for the rut. This is a demanding hunt requiring excellent physical conditioning, wilderness navigation skills, and the ability to operate in grizzly country. Standard Wyoming deer tags are needed, and wilderness permits may be required depending on the specific area within the forest. Trade-offs include incredibly rugged terrain, significant grizzly bear activity, and unpredictable weather that can dump heavy snow at any time. Rivers can also be difficult to cross after heavy rains or snowmelt. **Highlights** * Unique volcanic geology and dramatic, rugged landscape * High potential for encountering mature, unpressured bucks * Excellent opportunities for remote, multi-day wilderness experiences * High chance of seeing other iconic wildlife, including grizzlies and elk * Solitude is almost guaranteed once you get a few miles in **Watch-outs** * Extremely rugged and steep terrain, making travel difficult * High concentration of grizzly bears and other large predators * Severe and sudden weather changes, including blizzards * Difficult river crossings can become impassable * Requires extensive planning and self-sufficiency
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Cloud Peak Wilderness (Units 39/40) | Absaroka Wilderness (Units 102/105) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Bighorn National Forest, Wyoming, USA | Shoshone National Forest, NW Wyoming |
| Primary Target | Mule Deer | — |
| Elevation Range | 9,000 – 11,000+ feet | — |
| Typical Pack-in | 5-10 miles | — |
| Key Seasons | Mid-September to Early October | — |
| Terrain | Rugged alpine, granite peaks, timber, basins | Volcanic plateaus, rugged peaks, deep canyons |
| Primary Access | — | West of Cody or Dubois |
| Key Wildlife | — | Mule deer, grizzly bear, elk, bighorn sheep |
| Hunting Season | — | Late September - Early October (general season) |
| Permits | — | WY deer tag, possible wilderness permit |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Cloud Peak Wilderness (Units 39/40)
- Stunning high-alpine scenery with abundant lakes and dramatic peaks
- Good numbers of quality mule deer, especially in remote basins
- Varied terrain offers diverse hunting tactics
- Relatively shorter pack-ins compared to some wilderness areas
- Excellent opportunities for high-elevation glassing
- Steep, demanding climbs at high elevations
- Sudden and severe weather shifts, including early snow
- Grizzly bears are present, requiring caution
- Limited water in some exposed, high-altitude areas
- Trailhead parking can be crowded on popular weekends
Absaroka Wilderness (Units 102/105)
- High potential for mature, unpressured mule deer bucks due to limited access
- Exceptional solitude once you get a few miles from the trailhead
- Dramatic, unique volcanic landscape offers stunning views and challenging terrain
- True wilderness experience with abundant wildlife, including elk and grizzlies
- Rewarding hunt for those seeking a physically and mentally demanding adventure
- Extremely rugged terrain makes travel slow and physically demanding
- High concentration of grizzly bears requires constant vigilance and preparedness
- Weather is highly unpredictable; blizzards and severe storms can strike suddenly
- River crossings can become dangerous or impassable during high water
- Requires extensive backcountry experience, navigation skills, and self-sufficiency
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