🏔️ The Easiest Western States to Hunt Elk (With Over-the-Counter Tags for Non-Residents)

If chasing bugling bulls through the mountains is on your bucket list, but you’re overwhelmed by limited draws and confusing tag systems, you’re not alone. The good news? You don’t have to wait years to hunt elk out West.

Several states offer over-the-counter (OTC) elk tags that are available to non-residents—no preference points, lotteries, or high-dollar guided trips required.

Here are the easiest Western states to hunt elk with OTC tags, plus tips to help you choose the best one for your first (or next) DIY elk hunt.

🥇 1. Colorado – The King of OTC Elk Hunts

Why it’s a top choice:
Colorado has the largest elk population in North America (over 280,000 strong) and offers numerous OTC bull elk tags to non-residents. You can hunt archery or rifle in select units.

• Tag cost (2025 Non-Resident): ~$760 for bull elk

• Seasons: Archery, 2nd and 3rd Rifle seasons (OTC units)

• Terrain: From high alpine basins to lower elevation timber and sage

• Bonus: Excellent public land access through National Forests

Good for: First-time elk hunters who want plenty of public land and reasonable chances of encountering elk.

🥈 2. Idaho – Controlled Numbers, Solid Opportunity

Why it’s a top choice:
Idaho still sells non-resident OTC tags, but they’re capped by unit and sell out fast. You'll need to be ready when they go live (typically December 1st the year prior).

• Tag cost (2025 Non-Resident): ~$651 for elk

• Seasons: Archery and rifle in General Zones

• Terrain: Rugged and steep, but beautiful and remote

• Bonus: Excellent backcountry potential and lower hunter density than Colorado

Good for: Hunters ready to plan ahead and who don’t mind more physical terrain.

🥉 3. Utah – A Surprising OTC Option

Why it’s a top choice:
Most folks think of Utah as a limited-entry draw state—but Utah offers OTC “any bull” elk tags for many general units, including archery and rifle seasons.

• Tag cost (2025 Non-Resident): ~$593 for any-bull tag

• Seasons: Archery, rifle, and muzzleloader

• Terrain: High desert, mountains, and mixed pines

• Bonus: Lighter hunting pressure in some areas

Good for: Hunters willing to research lesser-known units and want a DIY experience with decent odds.

🏹 Honorable Mentions:

Oregon

• OTC tags available for archery elk and some rifle hunts

• Lower elk densities and thick timber can make hunting tough

• Tags are affordable and public land is abundant

Washington

• OTC elk hunting for both Roosevelt and Rocky Mountain elk

• Extremely thick brush, logging roads, and difficult visibility

• Better for experienced hunters or those already in the Pacific Northwest

🔍 How to Choose the Right State for You

Here’s what to consider:

🎒 Final Tips for Your OTC Elk Adventure:

• Buy tags early – Idaho and Utah can sell out months ahead

• Scout digitally with tools like OnX, GoHunt, or HuntStand

• Train now – Elk hunting is physically demanding. Start hiking and training with a pack.

• Start small – Focus on accessible terrain near water, bedding areas, and feeding zones

• Stay flexible – OTC elk hunting often requires changing plans mid-hunt

💬 In Summary:

OTC elk hunting isn’t “easy,” but it is accessible. If you're willing to do some homework, train your legs and lungs, and put boots on the ground, you can chase elk this fall—no points or fancy connections required.

Which state will you hunt this year? Let us know in the comment section.

P.S. Here is a free DIY OTC Elk Hunt Checklist for Non-resident to prepare.