Stick with it after opening day, hunting pressure will decline
Species
General Size
Trophy Potential
Columbian Blacktail Deer
80"-100"
110"+
Roosevelt Elk
230"-260"
260"+
On The Ground
Terrain
Vegetation
Access
Camping and Lodging
Historical Temperatures
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Moon Phases
December 2024
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The Cowlitz River runs through this small unit, meandering its way through a wide, flat valley, the majority of which is used for farming. Gifford Pinchot National Forest lies on the east side of Huffaker Mountain and north around Skinner Rd; this southeast corner offers the largest continuous public hunting opportunity with the Cowlitz Wildlife Area – Kosmos unit along the western border adding in 750-acres of public access. Huffaker Mountain peaks out at 3,524 ft and is rather steep along the north, west and south sides before transitioning to the surrounding flats, consistently hold good numbers of both elk and deer. Hwy 12 serves as the northern border to Randle where it heads south following a combination of roads, mainly Rd 25. The southern border follows the valley where the Cispus River flows until it hits Lake Scanewa and the Cowlitz River. The short western border is Champion Haul Rd just upstream from Riffe Lake.
There are a decent number of elk in this unit.
This unit drains the Cascade Range in the east to Riffe Lake, and is comprised of three large valleys along both the north and south border, and right down the middle. This leaves two larger sections of low forested mountains which are mostly private lands used for various timber and tree farms. The steepest region and highest points are located in the southeast corner.
This unit is heavily forested with clear cuts in various stages of regrowth offering excellent graze and browse for elk and deer. The wide, flat valleys have a wide variety of farms, from trees to fruit. This is a lush riparian forest and wetland region with multiple ponds and perennial creeks providing excellent forage for elk, deer, small game, and birds alike.
With the exception of the two blocks of land on either side of the GMU, this land is mostly private. There are 750 acres of wildlife area on the east end of Riffe Lake, and a sizeable chunk of National Forest in the southeast. There are roads everywhere throughout the unit, however, some roads and trails may close at anytime or are closed to motorized traffic, watch for posted signs.
Seeing as the majority of the unit is private, there is limited camping here. Various fire bans and forest road closures may happen, so double check any restrictions or permits necessary prior to your trip. If you are more interested in a bed and shower, as well as staying closer to gas stations, restaurants, and a grocery store, your best option will be the tiny town of Morton, well outside the unit to the west.
Roughly 57 square miles
11% public land
Elevations range from 800– 3,524 feet
Visit with landowners early to gain access to private lands
Check into the various private land access on timber company and tree farm lands