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Sawtooth Elk Zone
Idaho GMU 36
Strategic hunting data, boundary maps, and 2026 season dates for Game Management Unit 36.
Updated for 2026 Season
TerrainMountain/Foothill
OwnershipLand breakdown unavailable
Access DifficultySee IDFG
Key SpeciesPronghorn
Season TypeControlled Only
ZoneSawtooth
Unit 36 Overview
Idaho Game Management Unit 36 (GMU 36) is a premier hunting destination located in the Sawtooth Elk Zone. Home to Pronghorn, this unit features high-elevation rugged terrain, requiring physical preparation and optics for cross-canyon spotting. Public-land breakdown for Unit 36 is not yet integrated into our database — verify acreage with Idaho Fish and Game's Hunt Planner before scouting.
Application Strategy
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2026 Regular Schedule
Seasons in Unit 36 typically begin in Aug 15.
There are 1 confirmed seasons in Unit 36.
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We're currently digitizing 2023-2025 harvest reports and draw odds for Unit 36. Check back shortly for deep-dive analytics.
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Unit 36 Boundary
Those portions of BLAINE and CUSTER COUNTIES within the Salmon River drainage upstream from and including the Yankee Fork on the north side of the river, and upstream from, and including the Warm Springs, Treon, Cold, and Beaver Creek drainages on the south side of the Salmon River, and including the Marsh Creek drainage of the Middle Fork of the Salmon 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 36
Where is Idaho GMU 36?
Unit 36 sits in the Sawtooth Elk Zone. The landscape is predominantly mountain/foothill, requiring appropriate gear and preparation.
What species can I hunt in Unit 36?
Unit 36 has open seasons for multiple big-game species. Confirm season dates and weapon legality with Idaho Fish and Game before applying or buying tags.
Are offline maps useful in GMU 36?
Yes. Cell service is often limited or non-existent in the core hunting areas of Unit 36. Having saved offline maps is critical for safety and staying on legal ground.
Is Unit 36 mostly public land?
Unit 36 is approximately 96.7% public (mostly public). That gives DIY hunters meaningful range for scouting and stalking without trespass risk.
Land Ownership Breakdown
USFS95.72%
Private3.32%
Other0.66%
State0.3%
Source: IDFG Hunt Planner · Inside Idaho.
Other Units in the Sawtooth Zone
Season and regulatory information sourced from Idaho Fish and Game proclamations. Land ownership data compiled from public records. Maps generated by Roam Idaho.
Upcoming Deadline 2 Days Left
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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.
Land Ownership Map
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Pro Tip
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