What to Pack for a Backcountry Elk Hunt

A backcountry elk hunt lives and dies by your feet and your layers. Everything else you can borrow or make do — but wet feet and cotton will end your week fast.\n\nStart with boots you have already broken in. New boots on day one is a rookie mistake that ends in blisters by day three. Bring two pairs of wool socks per day and keep a dry pair for camp. For clothing, think layers you can add and shed: a light base, a fleece or puffy mid, and a quiet, waterproof outer shell. Leave the cotton at home.\n\nThe rest is simple: a good daypack, a headlamp with spare batteries, a knife, and the tags and license you spent all year drawing. We provide the camp, the horses, the meals, and the game care — you bring yourself, your rifle or bow, and your gear. We send every hunter a full checklist when they book, so nothing gets left in the truck.