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Sawtooth Elk Zone
Idaho GMU 35
Strategic hunting data, boundary maps, and 2026 season dates for Game Management Unit 35.
Updated for 2026 Season
TerrainMountain/Foothill
OwnershipLand breakdown unavailable
Access DifficultySee IDFG
Key SpeciesBlack Bear
Season TypeGeneral & Controlled
ZoneSawtooth
Unit 35 Overview
Idaho Game Management Unit 35 (GMU 35) is a premier hunting destination located in the Sawtooth Elk Zone. Home to Black Bear, Deer, Elk, Gray Wolf, Mountain Lion, White-tailed Deer, this unit features high-elevation rugged terrain, requiring physical preparation and optics for cross-canyon spotting. Public-land breakdown for Unit 35 is not yet integrated into our database — verify acreage with Idaho Fish and Game's Hunt Planner before scouting.
2026 Regular Schedule
Seasons in Unit 35 typically begin in Oct 10.
There are 14 confirmed seasons in Unit 35.
View Full ScheduleHarvest Data Coming Soon
We're currently digitizing 2023-2025 harvest reports and draw odds for Unit 35. Check back shortly for deep-dive analytics.
Data Pipeline Active
Unit 35 Boundary
That portion of BOISE COUNTY within the South Fork of the Payette River drainage upstream from, but excluding, the Lick Creek drainage on the north side of the South Fork of the Payette River and upstream from, and including the Huckleberry Creek drainage on the south side of the South Fork of the Payette River.
Sawtooth Zone Context
Central Idaho — Sawtooth Range
The Sawtooth zone covers Idaho's most photographed mountain range and the Stanley Basin below it. Elk hunting is strong but the terrain is uncompromising — granite peaks, glacial valleys, and significant elevation gain on every approach.
Stanley and Ketchum are the gateways. Snow and weather windows close earlier here than in lower zones.
See all units in the Sawtooth ZoneCommon Questions About Unit 35
Where is Idaho GMU 35?
Unit 35 sits in the Sawtooth Elk Zone. The landscape is predominantly mountain/foothill, requiring appropriate gear and preparation.
What species can I hunt in Unit 35?
Unit 35 has open seasons for Deer, White-tailed Deer, Elk, Black Bear, Mountain Lion, Gray Wolf. Confirm season dates and weapon legality with Idaho Fish and Game before applying or buying tags.
Are offline maps useful in GMU 35?
Yes. Cell service is often limited or non-existent in Unit 35. Roam Idaho's current web map requires a connection, so download an official offline map or carry a paper map before entering the field.
Is Unit 35 mostly public land?
Unit 35 is approximately 99.6% public (mostly public). That gives DIY hunters meaningful range for scouting and stalking without trespass risk.
Land Ownership Breakdown
USFS99.25%
Private0.44%
Other0.26%
State0.06%
Source: IDFG Hunt Planner · Inside Idaho.
Other Units in the Sawtooth Zone
Season and regulatory information is sourced from Idaho Fish and Game proclamations. Unit-level public-land percentages come from the linked public dataset and are not parcel boundaries.
Terrain Breakdown
Key Insight
Predominantly Mountain/Foothill
Prepare for steep elevation and spot-and-stalk tactics.
See terrain map
Land Access
Access Intel
Mostly Public
Great for DIY roaming.
Pro Hunting Map
GMU, BLM, terrain, weather, and wildfire layers
Species Guides
Species associated with Unit 35. Open a guide for habitat, timing, and regulation context.
Field Reminder
Use this page and the connected map for planning, then carry an official offline map and confirm current seasons, closures, and access before heading out.