The benefits of a pre-hunt scouting trip are numerous……And for Nevada hunting Units 161-164,  you can view all the wildlife and pristine habitat just miles from historic Austin, Nevada.

Founded in 1862, Austin is located in Central Nevada along the Highway 50 route, and is a great “starting point” for a scouting trip to these units.  Historically, Austin owes its original fame to the Nevada silver rush of the 1860’s-http://www.austinnevada.com/austin-nevada-history.html

 

A recent scouting trip to the higher elevations of the Monitor Range just east of Austin revealed a wide range of wildlife.  Antelope, mule deer, elk, and large numbers of sage grouse were observed throughout the range.   One NOU field representative reports herds of cow elk descending to the spring areas in the early evening, and even young (uneducated) bachelor mule deer bucks coming right into camp the last morning of the trip.   Both species are reported to appear extremely healthy and well nourished!

 

As a bonus, the wild flowers are in full bloom, with larger varieties of color found at the highest elevations (approximately 9200 foot elevation).  The numerous varieties of bird species were in constant activity, flying in and out of aspen grove shelter.

 

If you’re up to the challenge, portions of units 161-164 are designated wilderness areas  http://www.austinnevada.com/austin-nevada-wilderness.html   Here, Nevada elk and mule deer hunters can pack in and out by horseback for a different experience.

 

 

The beauty of this area is unique to Nevada high desert country-located in a very remote, challenging terrain, but the wildlife and surroundings are well worth the Nevada effort.