Idaho Backcountry Hunting Guide

Idaho has 16 million acres of public land — the highest percentage of any Lower 48 state — and the Frank Church Wilderness alone is 2.4 million acres, larger than Yellowstone. For hunters who want backcountry solitude without needing 5+ preference points, Idaho is the answer.

Nonresident general elk tags historically sell out within minutes in early December. If you can get one, you get access to huge wilderness units that see very little pressure compared to Colorado OTC.

Idaho Fish and Game releases nonresident general tags in early December each year. The tags sell out within minutes for most zones. You must be online, logged in, with your payment ready the moment they release. Outfitter-sponsored tags exist and offer a guaranteed path, but cost more.

Pack-in horse trips — the signature Idaho experience. An outfitter's packer strings 8-12 horses and mules to haul your camp and gear into the wilderness. Base camp is a wall tent with wood stove, 8-20 miles from the trailhead. You hunt on foot from camp each day.

Drop camps — the packer sets up your camp and leaves. You hunt on your own, with pickup at the end of the trip. Cheaper than a guided hunt, requires experience.

Jet boat / float hunts — on the Salmon and Snake rivers. Outfitters run motorized boats up canyon to reach hunt areas inaccessible by road or trail. Unique to Idaho.

Fully-guided pack-in elk hunt: $6,500-$10,500 for 7-10 days. Tag: $651. Travel: $500-$900. All-in: $7,500-$12,000.

Drop camp: $2,000-$3,500 for the setup and resupply, plus tag and travel. Total $3,500-$5,500.

Idaho backcountry is serious country. You'll be at 5,000-8,000 ft, hiking 4-10 miles a day on steep terrain. Train for six months before the hunt. Break in your boots on 20+ miles of pre-hunt walking. Bring rain gear and layers — September weather can swing from 80°F to snow in 24 hours.