Washington Elk Hunting: 5 Powerful Tricks for Hunting Success

Here, in the Evergreen State, you might find yourself glassing the steep slopes of the Blue Mountains at dawn, watching steam rise from a hidden wallow in the Willapa Hills, or tracking fresh signs through the old-growth forests of the Olympic National Forest. 

Whether you’re pursuing the larger Roosevelt elk in the state’s western rainforests or stalking Rocky Mountain elk in the eastern highlands, Washington offers some of North America’s most challenging and rewarding elk hunting experiences.

For generations, hunters have tested their skills against Washington’s elk, and today’s opportunities are more diverse than ever. With over 60,000 Roosevelt elk and 70,000 Rocky Mountain elk calling Washington home, the state has become a premier destination for those seeking their next great hunting adventure. 

But success here demands more than just showing up with a tag in your pocket—it requires intimate knowledge of the terrain, understanding of elk behavior, and mastery of hunting techniques unique to the Pacific Northwest’s varied landscapes.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to pursue Washington’s elk, from selecting the right unit for your hunting style to field-dressing your harvest in the challenging terrain of the Cascades. 

Whether you’re a first-time elk hunter or a seasoned veteran of the mountains, this is your roadmap to success in one of America’s last great elk hunting destinations.

Washington’s Elk Species