A lightweight tent is a must as you have to be able to dry out in an water and wind proof enclosure. Snow and rain can be a problem here, especially at high elevations. You didn't mention the proximity of where you plan to hunt so I will give you a basic idea of the terrain you will usually be in. If you draw two horizontal lines breaking Idaho into thirds you will be close to the different types of weather and terrain you can expect to see. The Northern third is lowest in base elevation from West to Eastern borders. It is the wettest and heaviest foliated with dense timber and small meadows. The middle is in the center of large logging area with many clear-cut of timber adjoining heavy and new growth timber. Although Lewiston on the western border is around 700 ft.of elevation the country rises thousands of ft. the farther east you go. Lots of open country on the western side going into older growth timber to the east. This takes you into the primitive area of Idaho where you can only hunt on foot or horseback. Prepare for weather of all kinds in this area. The last third (Southern Idaho) is actually the highest in the State including the highest mountain. It goes south to high desert country with the Snake and Salmon rivers. It is exceptionally windy most days and you had better be in good shape to self backpack into any of the areas of Idaho. Good cardio is a must at our elevations. After hunting through shale or dead fall timber to check alpine meadows for elk, it is a must. If you make a kill you are going to have to make at least 4 trips to recover the animal and your personal belongings. A good down filled sleeping bag, tent and ground cloth are a must. A good piece of plastic ground cover is lightweight and does the job. Spread over a limb above your tent and anchored by rocks will make snow slide away keeping your tent dry. I have also placed it over pine boughs for a sleeping mat. Try not to use fire where you hunt. Elk will be higher in wolf country.
Welcome to Idaho!
Welcome to Idaho!
