Mule Deer

Mule deer generally occupy sagebrush, pinyon/juniper, interior chaparral and pine/oak woodlands in this unit. Deer densities are generally low throughout the unit even in high quality habitat areas. Access into most hunting areas is good with over 80% of the unit in federal or state ownership.

Although deer densities are low, the unit provides a trophy quality hunt opportunity to those who draw a permit. The unit is managed according to the Arizona Game and Fish Department's Alternative Mule Deer Management Plan, which basically provides for low hunter densities and management for older age class bucks.

Weather in the unit during the deer hunt is generally unpredictable. Hunters should be prepared for inclement weather. Many of the roads in the unit can become extremely muddy if wet, and can only be negotiated with 4WD vehicles.

The area is one of the most unpopulated in Arizona, and hunters should be prepared to camp in remote areas with no services available, bringing shelter and plenty of food, water, extra fuel, and extra spare tires. The nearest full service communities are Colorado City and Fredonia, Arizona, both on Highway 389.

In the northern part of the unit, Rosy Canyon, Cedar Ridge, Lost Spring Mountain, and Yellowstone Mesa are all areas to consider.

The Kanab Creek rim including Bulrush, Sunshine and Water Canyon Point and adjacent canyons are good places to look in the eastern portions of the unit.

The Mt. Trumbull, Mt. Logan and Whitmore Canyon areas contain excellent deer habitat, and are often hunted. The southwestern portion of the unit, including the Hurricane Rim, should be considered as well.