Elk Hunting Gear List

Preparing for an elk hunt requires a comprehensive gear list to ensure you're ready for the demanding terrain, unpredictable weather, and physical challenges. The specific items you need may vary depending on whether you're car camping, backpacking into the backcountry, or using an outfitter. While you are hunting, understanding the balance of carrying essential gear but keeping your weight down is vital. However, here's a general guide to a well-rounded elk hunting pack list.

Essential Gear

• Hunting License & Tags: This is the most crucial item. Check state regulations for any additional permits or certificates (like a hunter safety card) that might be required.

• Weapon & Ammunition:

  • Rifle: A reliable rifle with a high-quality scope. Carry enough ammo for the hunt, plus some extra. A sling and gun cleaning kit are also recommended.

  • Bow: Bow, a dozen or more arrows, broadheads, and an extra release if you use one. Consider a soft or hard bow case for protection.

• Backpacks:

  • Large Backpack: A large frame pack (4,000+ cubic inches) is essential for hauling gear and, if you're successful, packing out meat.

  • Day Pack: A smaller, lightweight pack for daily hunts.

  • Backpack Rain Cover: Always carry a rain cover in your backpack.

• Navigation & Communication:

  • Map & Compass: Always have a physical map and compass and know how to use them.

  • GPS/Satellite Communicator: A GPS unit (with downloaded offline maps) or a satellite communicator like a Garmin inReach is highly recommended for navigation and emergency communication.

  • Solar Charger: Also consider a good solar charger to charge phones, GPS, and flashlights with internal rechargeable batteries.

  • Headlamp & Flashlight: With extra batteries. Elk hunting often involves hiking in the dark. (Carry one of each in your backpack but also keep a second set at camp for backup.)

  • Binoculars: Quality binoculars are a must for spotting elk from a distance. A bino harness can make them easy to access. (10x42, good balance of magnification and physical weight.)

  • Spotting Scope & Tripod: You may not use a spotting scope everyday but will come in handy if you have a good glassing spot.  

  • Rangefinder: Critical for accurately judging shot distance. (Needs to be able to easily read out to 1,000 yards.)

• Shelter & Sleep System (for backcountry hunts):

  • Tent/Bivy: Choose a lightweight and durable shelter appropriate for the conditions.

  • Sleeping Bag: Rated for the expected temperatures. Consider a synthetic bag, as it will retain warmth even if it gets wet.

  • Sleeping Pad: Provides insulation from the ground and comfort for a good night's rest.

Clothing (Layering is Key)

• Base Layers: Moisture-wicking tops and bottoms, preferably merino wool, which is known for its warmth and odor-resistant properties. Pack a couple of sets.

• Mid Layers: Fleece or insulated jackets, vest and pants for warmth. 

• Outer Layers:

  • Hunting Pants & Shirts: Lightweight and midweight options in a camouflage pattern.

  • Rain Gear: A waterproof and breathable jacket and pants are essential for staying dry in unpredictable mountain weather. I always bring two sets of rain gear, heavy and light sets. (Always carry light/packable rain gear in your backpack.)

  • Insulated Jacket: A packable down or synthetic puffy jacket for glassing or when temperatures drop.

• Footwear:

  • Hunting Boots: Sturdy, hard soled, waterproof, and well-broken-in boots are non-negotiable. New boots can cause painful blisters.

  • Socks: Multiple pairs of high-quality merino wool socks. Liner socks are also a good idea to prevent blisters.

  • Camp Shoes: Lightweight shoes, HeyDudes or Crocs to wear around camp.

• Accessories:

  • Hats & Gloves: A warm beanie or stocking cap and a ball cap. Lightweight and midweight gloves.

  • Gaiters: Useful for keeping snow and debris out of your boots.

  • Blaze Orange: Required for rifle hunts in most states. Check local regulations.

Kill Kit & Processing

• Game Bags: Lightweight, breathable game bags for quartering and protecting the meat. (I always carry a large unscented trash bag to put meat in while I'm packing it out. Keeps my backpack from getting soaked in blood.) 

• Knives: A sharp hunting knife and/or a replaceable-blade knife. A folding saw can also be helpful. Good knife sharpener. (I carry a solid fixed blade knife and a knife with replaceable blades. Bring lots of extra blades!!! Takes me six blades to quarter and cape a bull elk.)

• Gloves: Latex or rubber gloves for field dressing.

• Paracord/Rope: For hanging meat or securing gear.

• Zip Ties: For attaching your tag to the animal.

Food & Water

• Water Filtration: A water filter or purification tablets to ensure you have a safe drinking water source.

• Water Bottle/Bladder: A hydration system to carry water with you on the trail. (I prefer two 32 oz Nalgene bottles.)

• Food: Lightweight, high-calorie food. Freeze-dried meals are popular for backpacking. Also pack plenty of snacks like trail mix, jerky, and energy bars.

• Cooking System: A compact camp stove with fuel, pot, and utensils.

Miscellaneous & Safety

• First Aid Kit: A well-stocked kit with personal medications, pain relievers, moleskin for blisters, and a tourniquet.

• Fire Starter: Lighter, waterproof matches, and a fire starter kit.

• Hand Warmers: Hand warmers are nice in late season hunts. Especially while glassing.

• Duct Tape & Multi-Tool: For field repairs.

• Toilet Paper & Wet Wipes: You're gonna need it. 

• Trekking Poles: Can be a lifesaver for long hikes and heavy loads.

• Game Calls: Bugle tube and cow calls if you plan to. 

• Wind Checker: Always have a bottle of wind checker with you and an extra bottle at camp.