Hunts Unguided Rates Guided Rates

Guided and Unguided Hunting Trips

Upper Canyon Outfitters offers guided and unguided hunting trips for archery and/or rifle season. Our hunts include elk, mule deer, whitetail deer, antelope, moose, and mountain goat. Hunts start right out our back door. Located in the heart of southwest Montana, hunting trips from the ranch give unlimited access to the ranges of the Snowcrest, Greenhorn, and Gravelly Mountains in the Beaverhead National Forest and nearby private ranches.

The land varies from the river bottom and hay meadows to rolling sagebrush hills and high mountain plains. Then the terrain transforms into high ridges, deep canyons, scattered timber, and high mountain springs with aspen groves – ideal elk habitat. With so much ground to cover, you can choose your terrain, choose your hunt, and know that you have room to roam. The ranch is at 6000 feet elevation and we hunt up to 9000 feet. There are more than 800,000 acres of public and private land we have access to hunt.

Elk and Mule Deer

Elk and Mule Deer

Whitetail Deer

Whitetail Deer

Antelope

Antelope

Moose, Bighorn Sheep, and Mountain Goat

Moose, Bighorn Sheep, and Mountain Goat

Elk and Mule Deer

Elk and Mule Deer

UCO offers both guided and unguided National Forest hunts that take place in the Snowcrest, Greenhorn, and Gravelly ranges. A limited number of guided private ranch hunts are available. We are located in hunting areas 330,324, 326 & 322 which offers some of the best elk hunting in the state of Montana.  Elk numbers are higher than the FWP objective in our area, this allows you to harvest a bull elk or cow elk with your big game elk license. The average bull is 5×5 or larger. Elk hunting can be one of the most rewarding hunts and it can also be one of the most challenging hunts. For one of the most exciting hunts, there is nothing that compares to an archery bugling bull hunt.

Mule Deer are also abundant in our area, and we get a number of respectable bucks. Area #330 is a general permit area and area #324 is a permit-only area and UCO will help you with this process.

Seasons and Dates

Archery:

– Labor Day Weekend to Mid-October
– General Permit Area

Rifle:

– Late October through November
– General Permit Area

Special Permits:

– Elk B (Cow elk) Permit area #399-00
– Mule Deer (Trophy Buck) Permit area #324-50

Application Deadline:

– April 1 General Big Game License and Deer Permit – June 1 Elk B Permit

License Cost Non-Resident

– UCO helps in the application process to help you get a license. Licenses are not included in the cost of the hunt. Estimated cost for 2021 Big Game Combo Elk/Deer License, Preference points, and state fees $1,170.00.

Guided Hunts

Guided Hunting Rates

Our guided Private Land and National Forest hunts take place in the Snowcrest, Greenhorn, and Gravelly ranges on more than 800,000 acres of National Forest mountainous terrain. Our private ranch hunts offer you not only hunting on these ranches, but access into the backcountry. These ranches offer elk, mule deer, whitetail and antelope hunting. There is more then 9000 acres of private ranch land. We have experienced well-qualified guides who know the country and understand animal habitat. All our hunts are fair chase hunting.

Each hunt pairs one of our UCO guides working together with two guests who will spend each day hunting resident herds. To ensure the highest success, the majority of hunts are done by hiking. We also provide four-wheel-drive vehicles and ATVs when needed. For those who prefer to hunt one-on-one, upgrades are available.

1 guide per 2 hunters

Guided National Forest Hunts Archery or Rifle

Guided Antelope Hunts

Add Antelope to your Guided Hunt

Guided Youth Hunts

One-on-One Hunt Upgrade

Non Hunting Companions

Unguided Hunts

Unguided Hunting Rates

Our unguided hunts take place on the Beaverhead National Forest which is right out the back door your hunts start anywhere from 10 minutes to 40 minutes from the lodge. We show you the area; tell you where we have been seeing game. We encourage you to check in with us so we can help answer any questions and give advice on how to hunt each area. Our grandfather homesteaded here in 1910 so we do know the area and enjoy sharing it. This gives you a quality hunt with guidance. We offer game retrieval for your harvested game at an additional charge. There is a walk-in cooler and shooting range available to our guests.

Unguided Lodge Hunts

Unguided Cabin Hunts

À La Carte Meals

Policies and Additional Info

Solo Traveler

Packages are based on double occupancy. An additional fee of 25% is charged for solo travelers.

Licensing and Taxes

Taxes, hunting licenses, and gratuity are not included in the prices listed. The customary gratuity for satisfied guests is 15-20% of the total stay.

Due to the increase in people applying for Montana’s limited non-resident hunting licenses, we have updated the process in which we apply for all licenses and permits. Upper Canyon Outfitters now applies for all booked hunters’ preference points, licenses, and permits. If hunters apply on their own and do not receive a license, deposits are not refunded.

UCO will do everything we can to acquire a license, but due to the limited amount of licenses, we cannot guarantee hunters will draw. If UCO applies for you and you do not draw, you will be fully refunded your deposit or move your deposit to the following year. Because of the high demand for nonresident licenses, the state suggests that out-of-state hunters start planning hunting trips two years in advance. This allows hunters to purchase preference points in advance which increases the hunter’s chance of drawing.

Reservations and Cancellations

Because we accommodate only a few hunters, it is suggested hunters make reservations in advance. A deposit of 30% is required to book a hunt. Deposits are fully refundable if our hunters are unsuccessful in drawing a license, only when UCO applied for licenses. Should a hunter cancel a hunt prior to February 1, the deposit will be returned in full, less a $50 cancellation fee. If you cancel your hunt after February 1, your deposit will be transferred to the following year IF another replacement hunter is found and all fees are paid, otherwise all deposits are non-refundable.

We strongly encourage you to obtain Travel Insurance endorsed by the Montana Outfitter and Guide Association (MOGA). Insurance also protects you from damage or loss of equipment and provides medical benefits and emergency evacuation coverage during your hunt.

All of our hunts are fair chase, therefore there is a chance you may not harvest an animal during your hunt. If the thought of going home without an animal is not acceptable to you, we suggest that you not book a hunt.

In the occurrence of any unforeseen shutdown of Upper Canyon Outfitters, such as a forest fire, all money received will be transferred to the following year.

Client Responsibilities

All clients will be required to follow the ranch/stable and guides’ safety policies and procedures and all clients will be required to sign a Participant Assumption of Risks, Acknowledgment of Inherent Risks and Indemnity Agreement in favor of Upper Canyon Outfitters, Inc. upon arrival. UCO is the home to many pets and livestock, for this reason, we do not allow any outside pets at the ranch.

Deposit

A deposit of 30% is required for all reservations, the remaining balance, taxes and gratuity is due upon arrival at Upper Canyon Outfitters. We prefer check, cash, or debit, but also accept visa or MasterCard. A 2.75% convenience fee will be added if paying by credit card.
In the occurrence of any unforeseen shutdown of Upper Canyon Outfitters, such as a forest fire, all money received will be transferred to the following year.

Transportation to Ranch

Shuttle services are not offered. We highly recommend renting a vehicle. Having your own car gives you the freedom to enjoy evening activities and wildlife viewing on your own.

Testimonials

I can’t put into words how much I’ve enjoyed my visits to your place over the past several years, but if it’s any indication of just how much my stay at UCO has affected me, I now think about (fondly) Upper Canyon nearly every day… really. The whole experience, starting from the travel both to and from MT, the absolute beauty of the people and MT itself, the work ethic of the local folks, etc. has left an impression on me that won’t ever be forgotten.

Vern Wilt

Our Island Park Team had a great time. You put out amazing energy for the benefit of your guests. We recognize and appreciate your effort. And thank you for all of the little details, you and your crew provide and attend to.

Perry & Rosemary Thomson

With wonderful memories and great times, we’d like to thank you for having us join you and your family at UCO. Just loved everything, everyone, and every minute of everyday! We had a great time with Lance. He showed us all and everything we needed to know and do. Certainly thought and showed me HOW and WHERE to find a fish. We were very lucky to have had him for our entire experience with you. So, to you both, Val and her family, the guides all the kitchen staff… thanks. We look forward to our next visit in the Upper Ruby. To you and your for having a wonderful place to park our boots!

Brower & Barbara Mofitt

Thank you for the wonderful Montana hospitality at the Upper Canyon Outfitters last week at the Bamboo Conclave. The fishing, food, accommodations, service and especially the companionship were all first class. I’m already looking forward to my return visit next year.

Steve Renock

Thank you so much for making me feel so welcome here at UCO. I had no idea what to expect when I came out with Lance… but I didn’t expected to travel the entire way across the country to find another home. I think that’s what makes this place so great – your ability to also make a vacation feel similar to being right at home. Your friendliness & kindness amazed me – I really can’t say enough good things about you. You are two of the greatest people I’ve ever met.

Every year at Thanksgiving time and New Years I think back over the events that were special the past year and what I have been blessed to have in my life. Of course at the top of that list are family and friends. Then the special times that I have been able to experience. You both are in those thoughts this year on both counts. I want to “Thank You” for not only providing me with an opportunity to experience hunting in beautiful Montana with Greg, but even more importantly, your friendship, your wonderful employees and of course some of your other patrons like Les and Steve. This year my experience at Upper Canyon ranks at the top this year.

Again, thank you so much for your generosity and consideration. I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Charlie Pace

Ten years ago on our first trip to UCO, your dad showed me the sot where Travis shot the bull and I shot the cow. It was both of our first elk. That year the best part of the trip was meeting and learning from him and his wisdom and experience. The respect, not just for hunting, I gained in a very short time with him made taking my first elk in “his spot” even more rewarding. I’m honored and thankful. Best wishes and thank you again.

Allen

To begin, Dennis and I can’t thank you enough for a spectacular elk hunt. Your staff and family was amazing and made us feel at home, the accommodations were great and the guides were the most hard working and professional I have ever known. The five day guided hunt was hard work due to the warm weather, but Mitch, our guide, knew where to go and how to put Dennis and I in the right place to bring down a magnificent 6×6 bull elk. I have waited a lifetime to bring home an animal as amazing as this. Please post this on your webpage to let others know how they can benefit from your experience with guided hunts. Dennis and I will return for another hunt and hope you and your staff have a super Holiday Season and Merry Christmas, and please say hi to my new friend and fellow junior firefighter, Eli Thanks again.

The Marshal

Just wanted to say thanks again for the great time and hospitality. I measure my hunts by the experiences I have and not the animals I take home. Using that measuring stick I had a fantastic hunt. The elk were tough but the mule deer Aston found for me was beautiful. Aston was a pleasure to hunt with and put a ton of work into finding me an elk. The entire staff and accommodations were without question the best I have experienced. I would LOVE to come back and visit you again.

John Wishek

I had to write you a note to say how grand a time our family had on our stay and hunt with you there at Upper Canyon Outfitters. Everyone, without exception, was wonderful, friendly, helpful, etc. Our cabins were great. All the hunters in our group are still talking about the great experience they had. Meals, massages, even the snow, were all so especially grand too. One of the girls said that we need to come back in five years for a reunion, but she suggested summer time to see the ranch a warmer season. Thank you, hugely, for a marvelous family hunting vacation.

Jay & Charlotte Brennen

Thank you for the friendship, generosity, and wonderful hospitality that you shared with me the past two weeks. My stay here was enjoyable and the hunting was challenging. Meeting and hunting with new friends was also rewarding. I will be looking forward to returning to this beautiful spot in Montana. There is no greater hunting challenge than the magnificent elk.

Coach

Your warm, welcoming, laid-back atmosphere made us comfortable from the get-go. Your friendly staff and guides are some of the best people around. We appreciated everything they did to make our visit memorable.

Audrey Miller

My week at the ranch was truly amazing. I wanted to thank you for the incredible experience. I immediately felt like family, as I believe all guests do. I will be telling all my friends, family and coworkers of your gem on the Upper Ruby. It was wonderful to meet your family, especially Eli, and all the other employees on the ranch as well. I hope to make Upper Canyon a yearly visit. Wishing you the best of health going forward into the hunting season. Thank you again for everything.

Vinnie

I am so glad we got to experience your 4th of July gathering. Seeing so many people that visit time and time again is only a testament to how wonderful you are in taking such great care of everyone. Seeing your grandchildren and knowing Tate’s Upper Canyon Outfitters will go on for generations to come – joyous! You are truly special people and that is why you have the guides and guests that feel like family. Until I can return again, I send you my love. It could not have been better.

Georgie

Thanks for a great month of fellowship, fun, and great times. My mind truly was emptied of all my cares for days at a time, and I was able to really relax. Your untiring ability to be so many things to so many people simultaneously is amazing… and through it all you still manage to be a wonderful friend. Can’t wait to be with you all again, whenever that is.

Amy Grice

Just a note to thank you all for a wonderful trail ride and visit with old friends enjoyed by our entire family. It was wonderful to ‘hit the trail’ again to see our Ruby Valley from the peaks across the road. Best of all was getting to see some of the friends were made over the past 12 years. We’ve missed your all since I’ve made Ennis our summer home. Thanks to all for the warm welcome back to UCO – we plan to be back to ride as often as possible.

Jim Billings

We thoroughly enjoyed our time at your ranch. Eric led us to good fishing and, Donna, we loved the ride… Your efforts to keep the country in us urban boys and girls is much appreciated.

Ron & Sara Rosequist

I have never, ever, met such fantastic, good-hearted, hospitable, patient, kind, friendly people all under the same roof. I consider myself fortunate and my faith in human kind has been restored.

Patty Gilding

Thank you once again for allowing me to share your beautiful place and this amazing experience… I find myself reluctant to leave but with my spirit fed and renewed. I didn’t realized just how badly I need a Montana fix until I got here and felt, yet again, at home. Thank you for your hospitality and the laughs we shared. I cherish those the most.

Terri Wilson

Thank you for the fabulous week at UCO – the time went by so fast! We had a great group of gals and I am looking forward to visiting you again! Please extend my sincere thanks to everyone at UCO who made the trip so enjoyable. Everyone worked so hard, and with long hours for all of us. Coming back to the ranch every night was like coming home. Everything was just perfect!

Watching the video last night, I had a big smile on my face, but also tears in my eyes… we had an unforgettable experience at the ranch. Horses, dogs, cows and most of all, all of the great people made the week truly the best. I love Montana. I cannot thank you enough. I know we had a lot of fun with the calves on the last day but I hope they are not scarred for life after the tangles with the crazy women wanting to dress them up.

Thanks again, and hugs to all.

Andrea
A series of instances of people showcasing their successful hunts with 
Upper Canyon Outfitters.
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