Explore Arizona Hunt Unit 1 (Map): Adventure Awaits in the White Mountains

Arizona Hunt Unit 1 is one of the most popular game management units (GMU) in the state. It is renowned for its trophy elk herds, diverse terrain, and rich outdoor opportunities. Nestled in eastern Arizona’s White Mountains, this region offers high-country forests, alpine meadows, volcanic ridges, and clear-water streams. Whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime elk hunt or simply looking to explore Arizona’s backcountry, the Arizona Hunt Unit 1 Map from ADVENTURE iDIAZ provides the detail and durability you need to navigate confidently.

A serene autumn trail winds through the golden aspen trees in Arizona's high country, creating a breathtaking tapestry of fall colors.

Historical & Geographical Context of Hunt Unit 1

Unit 1 is more than just a hunting zone; it’s a land layered with history. Indigenous groups, including the Apache, lived, hunted, and traveled across this landscape for centuries. Their knowledge of the terrain, water sources, and wildlife set the foundation for many of the traditions still respected today.

In the late 1800s, settlers, ranchers, and loggers began carving routes through the dense pine forests. Remnants of old homesteads and wagon trails still exist, adding a sense of frontier spirit to the land. The White Mountains themselves were shaped by volcanic activity, leaving behind lava flows, towering ridges, and fertile meadows that sustain abundant wildlife.

Geographically, Unit 1 covers elevations from roughly 6,000 to over 9,000 feet. This elevation shift creates diverse habitats—alpine forests, aspen groves, grassy meadows, and canyon country—making it one of Arizona’s most productive and scenic outdoor destinations.

Hunting in Arizona Hunt Unit 1

Hunt Unit 1 is regarded as one of Arizona’s premier destinations for serious hunters. Its combination of high-country meadows, dense pine and aspen forests, and reliable water sources creates outstanding habitat for trophy-class animals. Many hunters consider Unit 1 among the top Arizona GMUs (Game Management Units) not just for opportunity but also for the stunning scenery and diversity of terrain.

Trophy Elk Hunting

Unit 1 is perhaps best known for producing world-class elk. The bulls here are some of the largest in Arizona, often scoring high on Boone & Crockett charts. The combination of genetics, elevation, and forage makes this unit a consistent producer of trophy animals.

• Habitat: Elk thrive in the mixed conifer forests around Big Lake, Crescent Lake, and the slopes of Mount Baldy.

• Strategy: Spot-and-stalk is common in open meadows, while bugling and calling are especially productive during the rut.

• Tag Demand: Elk permits in Unit 1 are highly sought after, with limited draws and high hunter interest.

  
  

Mule Deer & Coues Deer

While elk get most of the attention, deer hunters find plenty of opportunity here as well. Mule deer are commonly seen in the lower grasslands and juniper country, while Coues deer frequent the foothills and canyon areas.

• Mule Deer: Often glassed along open ridges and grassland basins.

• Coues Deer: Smaller and elusive, they require patience and optics in the broken canyon country.

Mule deer buck sporting his 5-point rack standing gracefully in a sunlit autumn meadow.

Black Bear & Mountain Lion

Predator hunters will also find excellent opportunities in Unit 1.

• Black Bear: Populations are healthy, particularly in the berry-rich forests and drainages. The fall bear hunts coincide with prime elk seasons, giving hunters a chance at multiple species.

• Mountain Lion: The rugged canyons and thick forests provide ideal habitat for lions, making Unit 1 a solid choice for those pursuing Arizona’s top predator.

  
  

Merriam’s Turkey

Unit 1 supports strong numbers of Merriam’s turkey, particularly in the pine and aspen belts. Spring hunts are popular, with gobblers responding well to calling. Fall hunts also offer opportunities, often while scouting for big game.

Pronghorn Antelope

Though not as abundant as elk or deer, pronghorn antelope can be found in Unit 1’s lower elevation grasslands. These hunts are limited and highly coveted, with excellent trophy potential.

Small Game & Upland Birds

For those looking for variety, Unit 1 also provides excellent small game hunting.

• Squirrel and Rabbit: Abundant in the pine forests and meadows.

• Coyote and Fox: Common throughout the unit and provide additional challenge for predator hunters.

• Band-tailed Pigeon: A unique upland bird species that inhabits the high forests during migration.

  
  

For official species lists, regulations, season dates, and tag application details, visit the Arizona Game & Fish Department.

Outdoor Recreation Beyond Hunting

Hunt Unit 1 is a destination that appeals to more than just hunters. This Arizona Game Management Unit is also a four-season outdoor playground filled with opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, skiing, and sightseeing. For recreation updates, road conditions, and access restrictions, see the US Forest Service.

Hiking & Backpacking in Hunt Unit 1

Unit 1 includes some of the White Mountains’ most scenic hiking routes. Trails range from moderate forest hikes to challenging high-elevation treks.

• Escudilla National Recreation Trail: Beginning around 9,200 feet and climbing to nearly 10,900 feet, this trail leads to the summit of Escudilla Mountain, the third-highest peak in Arizona. It offers panoramic views stretching into New Mexico.

• Indian Spring Trail 627: A 6.5-mile trek starting near 7,600 feet and climbing into cool pine and aspen forests. Great for spotting wildlife.

• Saffel Canyon Trail System: Popular with both hikers and mountain bikers, this network of trails near Springerville offers rolling terrain and wide views.

  
  

These routes provide everything from high-alpine vistas to quiet forest escapes—perfect for both day hikes and backpacking trips.

Fishing in Lakes & Streams

The White Mountains are home to some of Arizona’s best cold-water fishing, and Unit 1 sits at the heart of it.

• Big Lake: The crown jewel of White Mountains fishing, Big Lake sits at 9,000 feet and is well-stocked with rainbow, brook, and cutthroat trout.

• Crescent Lake: Known for large brook trout and cutthroat, this scenic lake sits at 8,900 feet.

• Little Colorado River: Originating from springs and snowmelt near Mount Baldy (Arizona’s second-highest peak at 11,400 feet), this river flows through Hunt Unit 1 before continuing northward toward the Painted Desert. Its upper stretches offer excellent trout fishing, with access from forest roads and hiking trails.

  
  

With its cool, high-country waters, Unit 1 attracts anglers from across Arizona, particularly during the summer months when desert regions are too hot to fish.

Camping in Hunt Unit 1

From full-service campgrounds to dispersed backcountry spots, Unit 1 provides endless options for overnight stays.

• Big Lake Recreation Area: Includes several campgrounds, such as Brookchar and Cutthroat, offering amenities like boat rentals, restrooms, and picnic areas.

• Hannagan Campground: At 9,100 feet in elevation, this campground provides a cool summer retreat with access to hiking trails and wildlife viewing.

• Dispersed Camping: For those seeking solitude, the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest allows dispersed camping throughout much of Unit 1.

  
  

Whether you’re bringing a tent, camper, or RV, the options here give every outdoor enthusiast a place to base camp.

Under the vast starry sky of Arizona's high country, a camper enjoys the warm glow of a campfire beside a cozy tent, surrounded by the tranquility of towering pines.

Skiing at Sunrise Park Ski Resort

Unit 1 is home to one of the very few ski resorts in Arizona: Sunrise Park Ski Resort, located near Greer in the White Mountains. Operated by the White Mountain Apache Tribe, the resort offers:

• 67 runs and 8 lifts across three mountains with a peak elevation of 11,100 feet.

• Beginner to expert terrain plus a terrain park for freestyle skiers and snowboarders.

• Summer recreation including zip-lining, mountain biking, and scenic lift rides.

  
  

For winter sports enthusiasts, Sunrise Park makes Hunt Unit 1 a year-round recreation hub, offering skiing and snowboarding opportunities rarely found in the Southwest.

Wildlife Viewing & Photography

Hunt Unit 1 is one of the best wildlife viewing regions in Arizona thanks to its rich habitats and elevation diversity.

• Elk Herds: Large herds are often spotted grazing in meadows near Big Lake and Alpine.

• Birdwatching: Merriam’s turkeys, hawks, and mountain songbirds thrive in this unit.

• Fall Colors: The aspen groves near Hannagan Meadow are a photographer’s dream in September and October.

• Scenic Drives: The Coronado Trail (U.S. 191) winds through Unit 1 and is considered one of the most scenic byways in Arizona.

  
  

Photographers, birders, and casual visitors alike will find plenty of opportunities to capture Arizona’s backcountry beauty.

Arizona Hunt Unit 1 Map Video Overview

SHOP ARIZONA MAP COLLECTION

Arizona Hunt Unit 1 Map – A detailed, water- and tear-resistant map featuring roads, trails, water sources, hunting boundaries, and recreation areas across Arizona’s White Mountains.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Where is Hunt Unit 1 located in Arizona?

A: It’s in the eastern White Mountains, covering alpine forests, canyons, and high meadows near the New Mexico border.

Q: What makes Hunt Unit 1 special for hunting?

A: It’s one of Arizona’s best units for trophy elk, along with mule deer, bear, and diverse small game opportunities.

Q: Can I camp in Hunt Unit 1?

A: Yes—Unit 1 offers both developed campgrounds and dispersed camping across forest lands.

Q: Is the Arizona Hunt Unit 1 Map durable enough for field use?

A: Yes, all ADVENTURE iDIAZ maps are printed on tear- and water-resistant material designed for rugged outdoor use.

Q: Is this map only for hunters?

A: Not at all. The map is equally valuable for hikers, backpackers, anglers, and anyone exploring Arizona’s backcountry.

Don’t head into the White Mountains unprepared. Equip yourself with the Arizona Hunt Unit 1 Map from ADVENTURE iDIAZ and discover why outdoorsmen and women across Arizona trust our maps above all others.

Key Features of the Arizona Hunt Unit 1 Map

Why choose ADVENTURE iDIAZ maps? Because we provide more detail, more accuracy, and more usability than any other printed maps on the market. Hunters and outdoorsmen rely on our maps because they deliver the most critical information with unmatched clarity.

Why buy this map? Because when you’re in the White Mountains chasing trophy elk, scouting water, or planning a backcountry trip, you need a map that works as hard as you do. Our maps show more, last longer, and guide you better than anything else you’ll find.

• More Roads & Water Sources: ADVENTURE iDIAZ maps include more roads, tanks, creeks, springs, and water markings than any other map on the market.

• Trails & Recreation Areas: Hiking and backpacking routes included.

• Easy-to-Read Layout: Clear labeling and intuitive design.

• Tear- & Water-Resistant: Built for rugged outdoor use.

• Compact, Field-Ready Scale: Lightweight, foldable, 1:100k scale.

• Detailed Topographics: Elevation lines and contours for terrain awareness.

• Campgrounds & Picnic Areas: Easily locate recreational sites.

• Full-Color Design Quality: Professional-grade detail and vibrant printing.

  
  

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Order your copy today and navigate Arizona’s backcountry with confidence, whether you’re hunting, fishing, camping, or exploring new trails.