2026 Chugach Dall Sheep

[adamkolesar]

You'll be doing a lot of "simulated" mountain training @ sea level with your pack and boots. Be sure to get to your mountain range fairly early to test how your boots fit with a real grade, under load.
I spent all kinds of time training in my Scarpas which I thought were breaking in nicely until I started rucking at a ski mountain @ 30 a degree grade. All sorts of toe box issues and heel slip. Fortunately I had time to switch to better boots in time for the hunt.

 

[Gstew1930]

You'll be doing a lot of "simulated" mountain training @ sea level with your pack and boots. Be sure to get to your mountain range fairly early to test how your boots fit with a real grade, under load.
I spent all kinds of time training in my Scarpas which I thought were breaking in nicely until I started rucking at a ski mountain @ 30 a degree grade. All sorts of toe box issues and heel slip. Fortunately I had time to switch to better boots in time for the hunt.

That's really good advice, thank you sir

 

[C Bow]

In 2020 I hunted the North Slope of Brooks Range with a guide that hunted in LL Bean Maine hunting boots rubber bottom leather tops said he had been using them kind for years

 

[skierhs]

The gators should be a non-issue for you, but that assumes you’re wearing a boot. Find a semi-light pair that will hold up to breaking brush.

As for footwear, I strongly encourage a stiffer/moderate tall boot. You’re going to be in some steep and rocky terrain and having the structure for your foot will go a long way. But you also need to believe in your gear and so go with what your guide suggest. He does this every year.

Congrats on the tag! It’s a fun area that is my backyard. Just work on your shooting and endurance. You’ll do fine.

 

[Newbie Sheep Hunter]

Couple things gators are kind of a non issue with any interference ( as long as you put them on correctly ) buckles on the outside and straps snug.
Not being close to mountains I would strongly recommend looking into Up-Hill athlete programs, they did just come out with a hunter specific program. They have a long history of working with mountain athletes that do not have mountains to train. Cliff Gray just did a podcast with them that is very informative.
This is the first thing I would start going on now in order to be ready for your hunt in august
hopefully this is helpful good luck

I have a sheep hunt with Matt Snyder in the Tok area this August and I am doing a custom program with these guys (about 6 weeks in now). I'm working with John Frieh. It's been great so far and I highly recommend it. I'm also happy to answer any questions you have. Crossing my fingers it's enough to have me in "sheep shape" for my hunt!