The Majestic Rocky Mountain Elk: Wyoming’s Premier Big Game Species

The Rocky Mountain elk (Cervus canadensis nelsoni) is the only subspecies of elk found in Wyoming and is a staple of the state’s thriving wildlife population. Also known as Wapiti—a Native American term meaning “light-colored deer” or “white rump”—these majestic animals have made a remarkable comeback in recent decades.

Elk Population Growth in Wyoming

Wyoming’s elk population is estimated at 113,000, the highest it has been in over 50 years. These impressive numbers reflect successful conservation efforts and the critical role of hunters in wildlife management. Today, elk can be found across most of the state, including regions where they were absent just 40 years ago.

At SNS Outfitter & Guides, we pride ourselves on offering the most diverse elk hunting opportunities in Wyoming. With several distinct camps to choose from, we provide top-tier hunting experiences that cater to a variety of preferences and styles. Over the years, we've guided 1,388 elk hunts with an impressive lifetime success rate of 72%—and we're just getting started! The positive feedback from our clients inspires us to keep doing what we love year after year. Here's what a few of them ha...