Pinion, Juniper & Cedar - many hunters hate to hunt them. They are, after all, hard to hunt. These areas are difficult to glass as well. Animals are difficult to see and hunters easily get turned around and lost. These are some of the things that keep many hunters away. They are also the reasons why some hunters love these areas. Others think elk will not live in these areas except in the winter months.

Increasing your knowledge of how to hunt these areas and why big bulls are attracted to these areas will help your success. Some trophy elk hunters will spend their whole hunt in these areas.

These areas are called transition areas. They are called transition areas because some herds migrate to these areas during winter months. Others are resident herds that will stay there year around. Others will just pass through on there way to wintering ground. And some will move into this area for cover during storms.

Why do elk like these areas and what makes up a good area that attracts elk? They provide thermal cover. Cover that is cool in summer, and relatively warm in winter. If it gets real hot or real cold elk can usually be found in cedars, pinions, or juniper cover. They also provide a good wind break. Elk will also move into these areas to get away from hunting pressure. Elk will prefer one area over another. Elk will prefer to bed in the thicker stands for more cover.

Areas that elk prefer will have dense stands of trees, mixed frequently   with other brush, such as oak brush, mahogany, or service berry, etc.

These areas will usually have large openings with sage brush or other low shrubs and grasses. Elk need open grazing areas. Water availability is a must.

Spot and stock hunting is usually not possible since most areas will be rolling hills or flatter terrain.

Depending on which season you are hunting you will need to cover a lot of ground to find fresh elk sign. Slow down, hunt carefully, look under the trees for elk feet or bedded animals. Stop every few steps and listen for movement from elk. Keep your nose alert for the smell of elk.  You need to be sneaky and unpredictable or they will move around you. Be prepared for close fast shots.

I have hunted cedars, juniper, and pinion from the time I was a tag along with my father to the present. We have often called this type of hunting "peek-a-boo" hunting. Now you see them, now you don't. This can be very frustrating or very rewarding type of hunting.

Some of the largest bulls in Arizona are taken in these areas and large bulls are found in all states in these areas. Cedar, pinion pine and juniper provide the type of cover elk will feel secure in and usually hunting pressure in some states are lower so the bulls have a greater chance to grow big head gear.

Archery hunting these areas are a lot of fun. You usually have good shooting lanes and the shots are usually close. Hunt water holes in the evening and call in the mornings between the water feeding area and elks bedding area. This usually provides some good action.