Backcountry big game hunts are some of the most rewarding adventures a hunter can take on—rugged terrain, remote country, and the chance to pursue elk, mule deer, or other species far from crowded trailheads. Success in the backcountry doesn’t just depend on skill with a bow or rifle; it hinges on preparation, physical readiness, and knowing how to live safely and efficiently in wild, unpredictable terrain.
If you're planning a wilderness hunt or comparing outfitters for guided backcountry trips, Find A Hunt can help you explore trusted options and book with confidence.
Why Backcountry Hunts Require a Different Level of Preparation
Backcountry hunting means:
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Long hikes with heavy packs
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Steep elevation gains
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Changing weather
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No quick access to help or gear
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Self-sufficiency for days at a time
Whether you’re spike camping for elk at 10,000 feet or backpacking deep into alpine basins for mule deer, preparation determines your success and safety.
Building the Right Fitness Base
Your body is your most important piece of equipment in the backcountry.
Focus Areas
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Cardio endurance: Hiking steep country with a loaded pack
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Strength training: Legs, back, core
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Stability & balance: Uneven terrain, creek crossings, deadfall
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Altitude adaptation: If possible, train at elevation or arrive early
Training Tips
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Hike with a weighted pack (30–50 lbs to start, more as you progress)
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Incorporate stair climbs, hill repeats, and long-duration hikes
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Aim for 3–6 training sessions per week for at least 8–12 weeks
A strong fitness base reduces injury risk and allows you to hunt farther and longer—two major success factors in the backcountry.
Dialing In Your Backcountry Gear System
Your gear must be light, durable, and dependable. Weight matters, but so does comfort and safety.
Essential Gear Checklist
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Backpack (4,500–6,000+ cu in): Capable of hauling meat
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Shelter: Lightweight tent or bivy system
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Sleep system: 0–20°F sleeping bag and insulated pad
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Boots: Broken-in, mountain-ready, waterproof or water-resistant
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Layered clothing:
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Merino base layers
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Midlayers
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Insulation (down or synthetic puffy)
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Waterproof shell
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Cooking system: Lightweight stove + fuel
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Water filtration: Pump, gravity bag, or purifier
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Navigation: GPS, mapping app, and a compass
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Trekking poles: Reduce fatigue and improve stability
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Headlamp: With spare batteries
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Kill kit: Game bags, gloves, knife, sharpener
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First aid kit: Backcountry-focused
Weapon-Specific Considerations
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Rifle hunters:
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Dialed-in zero at realistic mountain ranges
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Lightweight bipod or shooting tripod
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Bowhunters:
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Tuned bow with durable fixed or mechanical heads
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Extra D-loop material, press, and basic repair tools
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Food & Nutrition Planning
You need high-calorie, high-protein meals to stay energized.
Tips for Backcountry Food Prep
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Aim for 2,500–3,500 calories per day, more if covering steep country
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Choose lightweight, high-calorie foods:
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Dehydrated meals
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Nut butters
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Protein bars
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Nuts & trail mix
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Tortillas + tuna or jerky
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Pre-pack meals by day so nothing gets forgotten
Hydration is equally critical—drink consistently and know where your next refill point is.
Navigation and E-Scouting
Backcountry success starts long before your boots hit the trail.
E-Scouting Musts
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Identify bedding, feeding, and travel routes
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Study terrain features—funnels, ridges, escape cover
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Mark water sources, camp locations, and glassing points
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Plot multiple access routes
In the Field
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Download offline maps
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Carry a physical map and compass
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Mark blood trails, tracks, and sign
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Track your pack-out route before making the first cut
Good navigation eliminates wasted effort and keeps you safe.
Safety Planning and Emergency Preparedness
When you’re miles from the nearest road, small problems can become serious.
Safety Essentials
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Satellite communicator (InReach, ZOLEO, or similar)
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Emergency shelter or bivy
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Fire-starting kit
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Basic first aid training
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Knowledge of weather patterns and altitude sickness signs
Let Someone Know
Always share:
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Your planned route
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Expected return date
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Emergency contact method
A check-in plan can literally save your life.
Backcountry Camp Setup Tips
A good camp keeps you warm, dry, and rested.
Best Practices
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Camp near water, but not too close (cold air sinks into low spots)
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Avoid dead trees or widow-makers
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Keep food stored safely—use bear bags or canisters where required
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Level your tent site and clear sharp rocks or debris
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Keep gear organized so early-morning departures are quick and quiet
Comfort matters more than you think—fatigue ruins hunts.
Meat Care in the Backcountry
Proper meat care is a responsibility and a necessity.
Essential Steps
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Quarter quickly and get meat off the bone if temperatures are warm
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Hang in shade with good airflow
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Use breathable game bags
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Make multiple pack-out trips if needed
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Plan your route before packing heavy loads through steep country
Caring for meat early prevents spoilage and ensures that hard-earned harvest makes it home in top shape.
Should You Consider a Guided Backcountry Hunt?
A guided hunt can dramatically reduce risk while improving success.
Benefits of a Guided Backcountry Hunt
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Knowledge of elk and deer movement
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Pre-scouted basins and bedding areas
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Trained horses or pack animals
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Expert field care
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Safer wilderness travel
For hunters with limited time or those new to the mountains, a guide can transform the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How heavy should my pack be?
Most hunters carry 35–55 lbs going in. Meat-out loads can exceed 80–100+ lbs depending on species.
When should I start training?
Ideally 2–3 months in advance, with progressive pack hikes.
How far should I expect to hike?
Backcountry hunts often involve 5–10 miles per day, sometimes more when locating game or packing meat.
Do I need a satellite communicator?
Yes. It’s one of the most important safety tools in remote country.
What’s the best tent for backcountry hunts?
Lightweight two-person tents or single-person shelters that balance weight, durability, and weather resistance.
Get Ready for Your Next Backcountry Hunt
A well-prepared backcountry hunter is safer, more confident, and dramatically more effective in the mountains. Start training early, refine your gear list, and study the terrain long before the season arrives. When you’re ready to explore reputable outfitters or compare guided backcountry options, you can do it easily through Find A Hunt.
