High-Altitude Hunting: Bring the Best Gear to the West

High-altitude climates pose unique challenges for hunters that they may not encounter at lower elevations. At these elevations, the air thins, the terrain steepens, and the weather may often shift without warning. Whether or not you have a successful hunt is quite dependent on the amount of preparation you invest in before the trip even begins. Physical preparation and dependable gear are just as essential as the rifle or bow you carry afield. Read on as we break down the essentials for high-altitude hunts, helping you to become as prepared as possible for when things get tough.

High Altitude & The Human Body

Once you pass 8,000 feet in elevation, the air begins to thin, and oxygen levels start to drop. You may experience headaches, shortness of breath or even an increase in heart rate. In extreme cases, some individuals may even experience altitude sickness, which brings on bouts of nausea, dizziness or even confusion. The key to mitigating the effects of altitude starts with conditioning your cardiovascular system.

Before your trip, it is wise to establish a workout routine that emphasizes endurance and builds strength in your core and legs. This can be done outdoors by hiking steep trails, or in the gym by stair climbing, interval runs and a variety of workout equipment that mimics what you may experience afield. If your hunt is successful, you may be required to pack out the meat. Strengthening your core will help ensure you remain balanced when traversing rough terrain and are able to power through all the way back to base camp. At high altitudes, dehydration occurs more quickly, so drinking enough water and replenishing depleted electrolytes is essential. Lastly, while not always possible, arriving a day or two early for your hunt will give your body a little time to acclimate, rather than being shocked by jumping into a strenuous hike right away.

Clothing: The Importance of Layering

In the high country, the weather is often as unpredictable as the terrain. Mornings can be frosty, afternoons warm and sudden storms can roll in without warning. A well-thought-out layering system is key to remaining comfortable through varying weather conditions. A moisture-wicking base layer will pull sweat away from the skin. Stay away from cotton, as it will trap moisture against your skin and make you feel chilly quickly.

On top of your base layer, wear a mid-layer, typically a fleece or other lightweight material that provides warmth without bulk. Lastly, your outer layer should be both waterproof and windproof, staving off the effects of a pop-up shower and windy conditions. Breathable fabrics will keep you dry while allowing sweat to escape. Packable, insulating layers, such as a down or synthetic jacket, are quite handy because they keep you warm and comfortable while allowing easy removal and packing away should you get too warm. When it comes to clothing, the key is adaptability. Layering gives you the flexibility to shed or add warmth as conditions change, keeping you comfortable and focused on the hunt.

Optics: Seeing Clearly in Thin Air

Quality optics are a must to ensure glassing a mountainside is time well spent and will allow you to take a confident, well-placed, ethical shot. There are specific considerations that go into choosing the right gear for your hunt:

• Binoculars: Instead of wearing them around your neck, which inevitably causes unwanted aches and pain, invest in a harness or pack that lets you carry them on your chest. Popular magnification options include 10x42, 12x50, and 15x56. Choose a model that offers an ideal balance of magnification and field of view for the terrain you are hunting.
• Spotting Scope: Angled-body spotters are more comfortable than straight-body options for extending viewing, especially when sitting. The larger the objective lens, the brighter your image will be in low-light conditions, albeit at the expense of added weight. High magnification is a plus, but if made with subpar glass and coatings, your image will be milky. Your tripod should keep the spotting scope steady without adding unnecessary weight to your pack.
• Riflescope: Regardless of which riflescope you choose, it is essential to gather dope at varying distances so that you know how your ammunition performs and the elevation adjustments you need to make to compensate for bullet drop. You will likely find that the adjustments you record at home differ from those you record at your hunting destination. The rough nature of travel (especially when flying with guns), along with altitude and temperature differences, can significantly impact your shot. If possible, arrive early to confirm your zero before beginning your hunt.
• Rangefinder: Rangefinders equipped with angle-compensation technology are critical for shots taken at an angle. By adjusting the distance calculation based on your shot angle, you will avoid having your point of impact land too high or too low. Standalone rangefinders can be eliminated in some cases, as modern technology enables some binoculars to offer the same capabilities.

You may have heard the saying "buy once, cry once." Optics you consider should be durable, fog-proof, waterproof, shock-resistant, and able to withstand changing temperatures and weather conditions. Investing in quality gear from the start that performs in the harshest of conditions will ensure your money does not go to waste.

Carrying the Load: Packs & Footwear

Every ounce in your pack matters when facing the reality of hiking multiple miles each day over rough terrain at high elevation. The specific capacity that you’re going to require will be dictated by several things, including the length of your hunt and the amount of gear you must carry along. A poorly designed pack can leave you achy, miserable and popping ibuprofen like they were Skittles. Look for packs with adjustable suspension systems, padded hip belts, and the ability to easily transfer weight.

Some packs also incorporate built-in features that help carry the meat you’re packing out or even a means to secure your rifle. Materials should be weather-resistant & durable. Having an assortment of pockets will help keep smaller essentials well-organized.

Just as important as your pack is a trusted pair of hiking boots. The tread along the bottom should provide sufficient traction on a variety of terrains and ankle support when traversing uneven ground. Insulated options are a must when temperatures plummet, while waterproof options will keep your feet dry. Regardless of what pair you choose, perhaps the most important thing to do before your hunt is to break them in. If you opt to throw on a brand-new pair of boots the morning of your hunt, you are guaranteed to get painful blisters. Pair your boots with socks made from moisture-wicking material to keep them warm, dry, and blister-free.

The list of essential gear can go on and on, including hydration packs, food, maps, GPS systems and more. The key is to pack only what you anticipate needing while keeping your pack as light as possible. Hunting in high-altitude climates will undoubtedly test your limits while also providing an unforgettable experience. Success in these demanding environments comes down to preparation, including strengthening your body, choosing reliable gear and carrying only the essentials. The hard work you put in before your hunt will not only improve your chances of filling a tag but will also allow you to experience firsthand the beauty of places few ever get to see.

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