#5 on this list
Popo Agie Wilderness (Units 90/92)
Shoshone National Forest, Wyoming, USA
The Popo Agie Wilderness, part of the Wind River Range, is defined by its dramatic granite peaks, high-alpine lakes, and subalpine forests. This is a rugged, scenic wilderness that provides excellent habitat for mule deer willing to climb. The 'Popo Agie' is named after a Crow Indian phrase meaning 'start of the waters,' referencing the headwaters of the Popo Agie River. What makes it special is its remoteness from easy road access and the challenging terrain that keeps many hunters out. Access is primarily from trailheads west of Lander, with pack-ins of 5-15 miles needed to reach productive areas. The ideal season is late September through early October, before significant snows close off high passes. This hunt demands strong physical fitness, navigational expertise, and the ability to deal with high-altitude conditions. Standard Wyoming deer tags are required; wilderness permits are generally self-issued at trailheads. Trade-offs include the physical demands of high-altitude hunting, rapidly changing weather, and the presence of grizzly bears, though fewer than in the Absarokas or Thorofare. The sheer number of lakes can also make route-finding complicated. **Highlights** * Spectacular high-alpine scenery with numerous lakes and granite peaks * Excellent opportunities for spotting and stalking mule deer above timberline * Significant challenge for hunters seeking a true wilderness experience * Potential for combining a deer hunt with fishing in pristine alpine lakes * Fewer hunters willing to penetrate the deepest sections **Watch-outs** * Very high elevations, requiring acclimatization and good fitness * Abrupt and severe weather shifts, including early blizzards * Presence of grizzly bears in some areas, especially lower elevations * Route-finding can be complex due to varied terrain and numerous lakes * Long pack-in distances over difficult terrain
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#6 on this list
Washakie Wilderness (Units 99/101)
Shoshone National Forest, Wyoming, USA
The Washakie Wilderness forms the eastern flank of the Continental Divide in the southern Absaroka Range, directly south of the Thorofare. It's a wild, untamed landscape of high plateaus, deep river valleys, and dense conifer forests, offering immense solitude. What makes it special is its isolation; it's one of the largest roadless areas in the Lower 48, meaning any buck taken here is truly earned. Access is primarily from trailheads near Dubois or through the East Fork drainage, requiring significant pack-in efforts, often 10-20 miles. Best hunting is typically late September to mid-October, taking advantage of crisp fall weather and early deer movements. This unit is for the extremely self-reliant, experienced backpacker who is comfortable navigating remote, rugged terrain. Standard Wyoming deer tags are needed; wilderness permits may be required depending on your exact entry point. Trade-offs include extreme remoteness, significant grizzly bear presence, and highly unpredictable weather that can quickly turn a pleasant day into a survival situation. River crossings can also be formidable. **Highlights** * One of the largest contiguous wilderness areas in the US * Excellent potential for finding unpressured, mature mule deer bucks * True wilderness experience with immense solitude * Abundant wildlife, including elk, moose, and sheep * Challenging but rewarding terrain for experienced adventurers **Watch-outs** * Extreme remoteness and multi-day pack-in/pack-out logistics * High density of grizzly bears, requiring vigilant bear awareness * Severe, rapidly changing mountain weather conditions * Difficult river crossings, especially during high water * Lack of easy exit points in case of emergency
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Popo Agie Wilderness (Units 90/92) | Washakie Wilderness (Units 99/101) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Shoshone National Forest, Wyoming, USA | Southern Absaroka Range, Wyoming |
| Primary Access | Trailheads west of Lander, WY | Dubois, East Fork Drainage |
| Typical Pack-In | 5-15 miles to productive areas | — |
| Key Terrain | Granite peaks, alpine lakes, subalpine forests | — |
| Hunting Season | Late September - Early October | — |
| Permits | Standard WY deer tag, self-issue wilderness permit | — |
| Designation | — | Wilderness Area |
| Terrain | — | High plateaus, deep valleys, dense forest |
| Roadless Area | — | One of largest in Lower 48 |
| Typical Season | — | Late September – Mid-October |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Popo Agie Wilderness (Units 90/92)
- Spectacular high-alpine scenery, true wilderness feel
- Excellent opportunities for spotting and stalking mule deer above timberline
- Fewer hunters willing to penetrate the deepest sections
- Potential for combining deer hunting with pristine alpine lake fishing
- Significant challenge for experienced backcountry hunters
- Very high elevations require acclimatization and top physical fitness
- Abrupt and severe weather shifts, including early blizzards
- Long pack-in distances over difficult, rugged terrain
- Presence of grizzly bears in some areas, especially lower elevations
- Route-finding can be complex due to varied terrain and numerous lakes
Washakie Wilderness (Units 99/101)
- One of the largest, most remote wilderness experiences in the Lower 48
- Excellent potential for unpressured, mature mule deer bucks
- Abundant and diverse wildlife, including elk, moose, sheep
- True solitude and deep immersion in wild landscapes
- Incredibly rewarding for experienced, self-reliant adventurers
- Extreme remoteness with multi-day pack-in requirements
- High density of grizzly bears demands constant vigilance
- Unpredictable, rapidly changing mountain weather conditions
- Difficult river crossings, especially at high water levels
- Lack of easy emergency egress due to isolation
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