Utah backpack hunting

[taylordtriplett]

Hey guys! I’m new to Utah and western hunting. Grew up hunting whitetails in MS and this was my first year hunting out west. I hunted with a utv this year. I learned a lot, but there were hunters everywhere. looking to do some backpack hunting next season to get away from the crowds. I have been backpacking for years, so don’t have any questions about that, but wondering what general season units I should look into for next year that have very little trail access. I don’t mind hiking long days as long as it gets me away from trails and I don’t have side by sides passing me the whole time. Any suggestions are appreciated!

 

[PathFinder]

We don't talk units on Rokslide.
Five minutes on OnX will answer your question.

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[realunlucky]

Look to the Uinta's, start working out your legs now. The steeper the slope the less you'll be bothered by others hunting around you Thank me later for your solitude.

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[CorbLand]

Box Elder. You could spend days in some areas and not see a soul. Best part, you wouldn’t even have to leave the roads.

Probably won’t see any deer but it would accomplish not having people around.

 

[HunterGatherer]

I was pleasantly surprised on my Utah hunts (5yrs ago and this year) that very few hunters got more than 1/2 mile from the road, even in LE units. Lots of road hunters. Maybe it’s not like that everywhere but it was certainly a lot different than Idaho where you can pack deep into the wilderness and still run into huge camps. Pick a good unit, put in some time scouting and hang some cameras and you will do well. Just make sure to have cams out by July 30.

 

[Browninglover1]

Don't set expectations to get away from people by backpacking. The popularity of backpack hunting is driving so many folks to do it, you'll often find similar crowds at places that are as far in as you can go. Ironically you may find much lower pressure at areas that are just past where most people stop for day hunts, but shorter distances than guys want to go that think they're going to "get away" from the crowds.

Also in general units it seems pressure cycles through every few years. One of my favorite places to hunt often only has 4-5 other hunters in it on opening weekend. Then randomly for a few years it will have 20-25 and looks like a pumpkin patch. I've seen the cycle repeat itself in other areas I hunt quite often, so just be prepared to adapt either way.