Elk are among the most impressive large mammals in North America. The animals inhabit forests, grasslands and mountain valleys which extend throughout their range in the United States. The large herds which exist in several states continue to migrate across open areas during their seasonal transitions between summer and winter habitats. Elk herds move through natural areas across twelve states which show their presence throughout the state.
Wyoming
Wyoming hosts one of the largest elk populations in the country. The Greater Yellowstone ecosystem region sees thousands of elk which migrate between mountain ranges and their feeding grounds in the valleys.
Montana
Montana’s expansive forests and mountain valleys provide prime elk habitat. The herds follow their seasonal routes through national forests and protected wilderness areas.
Colorado
Colorado is widely known for having one of the largest elk populations in the United States. The large herds inhabit the high mountain meadows and forests of the region.
Idaho
Idaho has strong elk populations which require its rugged terrain for their survival. The herds follow their seasonal migration routes between summer alpine areas and winter lower valley regions.
Utah
Utah maintains thriving elk populations thanks to extensive wildlife management programs. People often see elk in the forested areas of the mountain regions.
Arizona
The northern region of Arizona contains significant elk populations which inhabit the forested plateau areas where herds move between their feeding grounds.
New Mexico
New Mexico contains one of the largest elk populations found throughout the southwestern parts of the United States. The Elk population of the state benefits from its various landscapes which include high mountain forests and open grasslands as their preferred living environment.
Oregon
You would be surprised to know that Oregon is home to both Rocky Mountain elk and Roosevelt elk. The herds travel through both coastal forests and mountainous areas.
Washington
The forests and river valleys of Washington state provide suitable habitats that allow elk populations to thrive. Roosevelt elk lead their herds to form large groups of animals.
Pennsylvania
Elk populations returned to Pennsylvania after their early 20th century reintroduction. Herds commonly appear in the north-central area for visitors to see.
Kentucky
In the present time, large elk herds can still be seen moving across valleys and forest clearings, particularly in areas like the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area and its adjacent wildlife zones.
Michigan
The northern forests of Michigan create a home for a small yet significant elk population which migrates between seasons. The majority of Michigan elk spend time wandering in the forests and fields of the northern Lower Peninsula, areas such as the Pigeon River Country State Forest.
