Wyoming is home to more than 120,000 elk, making it one of the most significant elk populations in North America.   Managing that herd across an entire state is both complex and controversial, and one of the most debated issues is the winter feeding of elk. For those who are unfamiliar, Wyoming currently operates 22 state elk feed grounds, and the federal government manages the well-known National Elk Refuge in Jackson Hole. While western Wyoming offers vast amounts of healthy summer a...

The Majestic Rocky Mountain Elk: Wyoming’s Premier Big Game Species

The Rocky Mountain elk (Cervus canadensis nelsoni) is the only subspecies of elk found in Wyoming and is a staple of the state’s thriving wildlife population. Also known as Wapiti—a Native American term meaning “light-colored deer” or “white rump”—these majestic animals have made a remarkable comeback in recent decades.

Elk Population Growth in Wyoming

Wyoming’s elk population is estimated at 113,000, the highest it has been in over 50 years. These impressive numbers reflect successful conservation efforts and the critical role of hunters in wildlife management. Today, elk can be found across most of the state, including regions where they were absent just 40 years ago.

At SNS Outfitter & Guides, we pride ourselves on offering the most diverse elk hunting opportunities in Wyoming. With several distinct camps to choose from, we provide top-tier hunting experiences that cater to a variety of preferences and styles. Over the years, we've guided 1,388 elk hunts with an impressive lifetime success rate of 72%—and we're just getting started! The positive feedback from our clients inspires us to keep doing what we love year after year. Here's what a few of them ha...