Clothing Tips For Rocky Mountain Deer and Elk Hunting
So, you’re headed to the high country for a little deer and elk hunting. You’ve probably been wondering about what to wear in such a climate and elevation especially if you’ve never been to the majestic Rocky Mountains previously.
Since I live in the heart of some of the premier deer and elk hunting on the planet I do have a few pointers on how to dress for such occasions. I’ve formulated these opinions based primarily on poor decisions made on my part. Nothing quite like the school of hard knocks to get you educated and I have indeed attended that school. Especially when it comes to freezing your posterior off from dressing incorrectly or inappropriately.
So here are a few pointers to consider when dressing for your big game hunt in the high country.
Foot Wear: Now the Rocky Mountains were named that way for a reason. Because it’s literally a pile of rocks in most cases and the further up in altitude you go the rockier it becomes. You need a hunting boot that can withstand rocky conditions with sharp edges. They need to breath and depending on temperature have some degree of insulation. Insulation can be a double edge sword. You need to keep your feet warm, but equally if not more important, dry. You need some degree of ankle support. Nothing will terminate your hunt quicker than rolling an ankle while coming down a steep slope. And by the way it took a good long year, maybe two, to get my hunting boots broken in properly.
Socks: Absolutely, under no conditions whatsoever, do you wear cotton socks unless you enjoy sweaty, cold feet with accompanying blisters. Moisture wicking socks are an absolute must. There are many on the market. I prefer a lightweight silk liner under a quality, merino wool blend, type of sock. I can then be assured my feet are going to be the most comfortable with this type of sock layering.
Gloves: I prefer layering system consisting of a thin silk or silk wool blend glove under a breathable wool glove. For extremely cold temperatures I prefer the silk wool lining under a quality mitten.
Pants: In most hunting situations in the fall/winter time of year in mountainous country you will need to layer with:
1) A moister wicking under garment (merino wool, polypropylene, others)
2) A wool pant or bib (I purchase mine from a local sporting goods store that also sells army surplus items. The quality and price is outstanding!)
This layering will give you the best chance to stay dry, warm, and comfortable.
Shirts: Follow guidelines for pants above.
Coats or Parkas: Fleece or wool products work the best for high mountain hunting. I prefer items with a hood obviously to keep my head warm. If your exertion rate is high it’s important to be able to dissipate heat efficiently. Otherwise you will get hot and sweaty in a hurry. You need to avoid this scenario.
Keep in mind that in most situations you are hunting at altitude, anywhere from 5000 feet to 9500 feet. This exposes you to a wide range of conditions and temperatures. And you must be prepared for extremes. In the early morning, predawn hours the temperature may be anywhere from 0 to 32 degrees. At midday the temperature may be 50 to 60 degrees. Obviously that’s a large range in temperature. So you must learn what to put on and what to take off in order to stay comfortable and dry. Not only are the above items warm with the ability to wick moisture away from your body but they are also QUIET! Try whisking through the forest in some noisy, crackling hunting cloths and see how many game animals you see. I promise you will be disappointed.
So with a little planning on your part rest assured you can be prepared for whatever mother nature throws at you for a more comfortable rewarding hunting experience. Happy hunting.