Summary
Finding the best guided elk hunts in the US depends on the experience you’re looking for. States like Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming offer vast lands and high elk populations, while New Mexico and Nevada are known for trophy bulls. Whether you want a rugged backcountry adventure or a private land hunt with guaranteed tags, this overview covers the top locations for your next elk hunting trip.
Choosing the right guided elk hunt can be overwhelming, with so many states, outfitters, and hunting styles to consider. Whether you’re after a high-success hunt, a trophy bull, or an unforgettable backcountry experience, finding the right location is key. Each state offers something unique, from Colorado’s massive elk population to Nevada’s world-class bulls, and understanding these differences helps you plan the perfect hunt.
For many hunters, draw systems and tag availability create uncertainty when booking a hunt. That’s why states like New Mexico and Wyoming, which offer private land hunts with guaranteed tags, are a great option for those who want to hunt this season. This blog post breaks down the top states for guided elk hunts, helping you find the best location based on your goals, experience, and hunting style.
Best Guided Elk Hunts In The US
The best guided elk hunts in the US take place in states with high elk populations, strong herd genetics, and diverse hunting terrain. States like Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, and Wyoming stand out for their trophy Elks, vast public lands, and private land opportunities.
Guided Elk Hunts in Colorado
If you want big bulls and high success rates, Colorado is the place to be. With the largest elk population in the country, this state offers some of the best guided elk hunts you’ll find—whether you're chasing bugling bulls in the backcountry or looking for a high-success private land hunt. Over-the-counter tags? Yep, Colorado’s got them. That means you don’t have to sit around waiting on a lottery draw—just book your hunt and get after it.
For the hardcore hunters, millions of acres of public land offer the kind of rugged, do-it-yourself adventure most dream about. But if you’re after a controlled, high-success hunt with top-end bulls, private land hunts in Colorado are the way to go. With prime habitat, expert guides, and carefully managed herds, your odds of taking a trophy bull skyrocket. Archery, rifle, or muzzleloader—Colorado has it all.
Why Hunt in Colorado?
Largest elk population in the U.S.—more elk, more opportunities, better odds.
Diverse terrain, from high-altitude wilderness to well-managed private ranches.
Over-the-counter tags are available, so you’re not stuck waiting on a draw.
California Guided Elk Hunts
If you’re after Roosevelt or Tule elk, California is one of the rarest and most exclusive places to hunt them. With strict herd management and limited tags, these hunts are all about quality over quantity. If you want a shot at a true trophy bull, going guided is the only way to go. California doesn’t offer endless over-the-counter tags like other states—if you get the chance to hunt here, you take it.
For those who want top-end bulls and a premium hunting experience, private ranches in California provide access to some of the best Roosevelt and Tule elk hunting in the country. These fully guided hunts eliminate the guesswork, offering seasoned guides, prime locations, and top-tier accommodations. If you want a controlled, high-success, once-in-a-lifetime hunt, California is where you find it.
Why Hunt in California?
One of the only states with Roosevelt and Tule elk, making it a rare hunting opportunity.
Exclusive, highly managed private land hunts with exceptional trophy potential.
Perfect for hunters who want a premium, well-organized hunting experience.
Montana Guided Elk Hunts
Montana is big Elk bull country, plain and simple. With millions of acres of open terrain, rolling foothills, and deep timber, this state is built for hardcore spot-and-stalk hunters. If you’re looking for a physically demanding hunt with the potential for massive bulls, Montana delivers. Whether you prefer public land hunts with endless adventure or guided private ranch hunts with high success rates, there’s an option for every hunter.
Montana’s elk grow big thanks to strong genetics, tough terrain, and lower hunting pressure in certain areas. Archery or rifle, this state rewards patience, skill, and endurance. For hunters who don’t mind putting in the miles, Montana is one of the best places in the U.S. to chase trophy elk.
Why Hunt in Montana?
Expansive public land access with excellent trophy potential.
Elk genetics produce massive, big-bodied bulls built for the terrain.
Rifle and archery seasons offer diverse hunting opportunities across different landscapes.
Nevada Bull Elk Hunts
Nevada doesn’t hand out elk tags like candy—but if you draw one or book a guaranteed guided hunt, you’re in for something special. This state is home to some of the biggest bulls in North America, thanks to strict management, low hunting pressure, and prime habitat. If you’re serious about trophy-class elk, Nevada is one of the best places to find them.
Because tags are limited, going with a guide hunt is the best way to make the most of this rare opportunity. Nevada’s guides know the land, the herds, and the best strategies for success. Whether you're glassing the vast desert terrain or setting up for a high-success rifle hunt, this is a state where patience pays off big time.
Why Hunt in Nevada?
Consistently produces some of the largest bulls in the U.S.
Highly managed for trophy elk, ensuring exceptional size and quality.
Perfect for hunters looking for a premier, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Wyoming Bull Elk Hunts
Wyoming offers the classic Western elk hunting experience—rugged backcountry, horseback hunts, and some of the best elk densities in the country. Whether you’re riding deep into the mountains or setting up on a private ranch with premium access, Wyoming is a top choice for guided elk hunts. This state delivers a mix of high-success private land hunts and challenging public land adventures, making it perfect for hunters of all experience levels.
The state’s well-managed herds produce big, mature bulls year after year. Wyoming is also a top spot for bowhunters, thanks to prime rut hunting conditions and great calling opportunities. For those looking for a traditional Western elk hunt with incredible scenery and high success rates, Wyoming is a solid pick.
Why Hunt in Wyoming?
High elk densities, increasing the chances of locating bulls quickly.
True backcountry hunting experience with horseback and pack-in hunts.
Well-managed herds producing excellent age-class bulls for trophy potential.
Guided Elk Hunts in New Mexico
If you’re after monster bulls Elks, New Mexico is where you want to be. This state consistently produces some of the biggest elk in the country, with prime habitat, low hunting pressure, and a mix of public and private land opportunities. Guided hunts here offer high success rates, whether you’re chasing bulls in the vast national forests or on exclusive private ranches.
New Mexico’s unit-wide private land tag system is a game-changer—it allows hunters with private land tags to access both private and public lands in designated areas, giving them more flexibility and better odds at harvesting a trophy bull. Whether you're calling in a screaming bull during archery season or setting up a rifle hunt on a vast plateau, New Mexico delivers big-time.
Why Hunt in New Mexico?
Consistently produces massive bulls, ranking among the top trophy elk states.
Private land unit-wide tag system allows for better access and flexibility.
Ideal for both archery and rifle hunters looking for high-success hunts.
Why Book Your Guided Elk Hunt With Urge2Hunt?
At Urge2Hunt, we take the guesswork out of planning your guided elk hunt. With over 35 years of experience, we’ve built strong relationships with the top outfitters across the U.S. Unlike traditional hunts that require you to navigate complex draw systems, we offer guaranteed tags, allowing you to book your hunt for the current season without the hassle.
We understand that every hunter has different expectations, which is why we customize each hunt to match your skill level, experience, and personal preferences. At Urge2Hunt, we don’t just book hunts—we ensure you get a seamless, worry-free experience with trusted professionals who deliver results. If you’re looking for the best guided elk hunts with guaranteed tags, you’ve come to the right place.