Should I focus on high elevations or valleys when hunting elk?

Pre-Rut Strategies for High Elevations

When hunting elk in the high country of New Mexico’s Sangre de Cristo Mountains, target areas with alpine meadows and aspen groves at elevations between 9,000 and 11,000 feet. These areas tend to hold elk during the early season, typically from mid-August to mid-September. Look for elk grazing on grasses, shrubs, and forbs in these high-altitude meadows.

Late Season Valleys and Ridgetops

As the season progresses, elk begin to migrate down to lower elevations in search of food and water. Valleys and ridgetops in areas like the Jemez and San Juan Mountains offer prime habitat during the late season, from mid-October to mid-November. Focus on areas with oak, pine, and juniper woodlands, as well as nearby riparian zones with willows, cottonwoods, and other riparian vegetation.

Hunting Techniques for Success

To increase your chances of success in these high-elevation and low-elevation areas, employ techniques like spot-and-stalk hunting, calling, and using scent attractants. Be prepared to hike long distances and adapt to changing weather conditions, including wind, snow, and thunderstorms. Use a combination of optics, including binoculars and a spotting scope, to survey the landscape and locate elk from a distance.