NM Elk Unit 45

# NM Unit 45 Tactical Analysis ## Terrain & Access Unit 45 spans 5,590–13,042 ft elevation across nearly 1 million acres with 82% public land. However, 23% wilderness creates serious backcountry hunting. Forum posts emphasize this is a remote, rugged unit requiring **horses are mandatory** — packing elk out on foot is described as "physically impossible" in many areas. High elevation means September archery hunts will target early-season bugles; late-season rifle hunts (October–December) face snow and cold at upper elevations. ## Draw Difficulty: Residents vs. Nonresidents **Residents** have much better access. Muzzleloader seasons (44% draw for ELK-3-368) are your easiest...