We’re fortunate in Utah to have a hunt-able population of White-tailed Ptarmigan.  “Hunt-able” being a fairly subjective word.  The season opens early compared to many gallinaceous upland birds, around the last week of August; usually due to the fact that most alpine areas are snowed in much past September.

Many of the folks that go after White-tailed Ptarmigan end up getting great views, spectacular alpine fishing, and memories to last a lifetime…but often no birds.  I should know…I’ve hunted them 5 times…and only found birds twice!
The preparation phase of a White-tailed Ptarmigan trip is intense.  The only place to hunt them in Utah is the High Uinta Wilderness, a pristine back country without roads or access by any motorized means.  Hunting is by hiking or horse only…and its 10 miles before you even reach the alpine areas they inhabit.  There are still truly wild places out west…and this is one of them.
Read More