Arizona Elk Mule Deer Pronghorn Turkey

Unit 12A (North Kaibab)

Arizona Hunting Guide — Elk, Mule Deer, Pronghorn, Turkey

Unit 12A covers the North Kaibab — the Kaibab Plateau on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon within the Kaibab National Forest. This legendary unit features dense ponderosa pine, mixed conifer, spruce-fir forests, and open meadows from 7,000 to 9,200 feet. The Kaibab Plateau's isolation and exceptional habitat produce some of Arizona's finest elk, with 300+ class bulls taken consistently. Access is limited — Highway 67 closes in winter, making timing critical.

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Access roads, campgrounds, elevation, monthly weather, stock tanks, cell coverage, and nearest-town services for Unit 12A.

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Elk Hunting in Unit 12A

Where to Find Elk in Unit 12A

Elk in Unit 12A inhabit the Kaibab Plateau's forests on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, one of Arizona's most productive elk ranges.

High Plateau Parks and Mixed Conifer (8,500–9,200 ft)

The upper-elevation mixed conifer and spruce-fir forests hold elk during summer and early archery season. The open meadows and parks between Highway 67 and the eastern boundary are key feeding and gathering areas. These forests are dense — expect close-range encounters in the timber and open shooting across the meadow systems.

Ponderosa Belt (7,000–8,500 ft)

The mid-elevation ponderosa belt on the plateau provides more open habitat with meadow systems and park openings. Elk shift to these areas as the season progresses and snow pushes them lower. These parks offer better glassing than the upper timber.

Water and Meadow Systems

Stock tanks, natural springs, and the numerous small meadows scattered across the Kaibab Plateau concentrate elk. Water is scarce relative to the herd size, making active water sources the primary attractant during dry periods. Scout tanks before your hunt — the ones with fresh sign are gold.

How to Hunt Elk in Unit 12A

Unit 12A elk hunting on the Kaibab Plateau combines open-park glassing with close-range timber encounters.

September Bugling on the Plateau

The September archery season during the rut is the premier opportunity in Unit 12A. Bulls bugle aggressively across the Kaibab's meadow systems and timber edges. Set up near wallows, meadow edges, and timber crossings along the plateau. Aggressive cow calling and raking sounds bring bulls through the parks and shooting lanes.

Plateau Park Glassing

The Kaibab's extensive meadow and park system allows you to cover enormous ground from a single vantage. Set up on the timber edge overlooking a park before dawn. Elk feed in these openings during low-light periods. A tripod-mounted spotting scope and quality binoculars are essential for working the open country.

Timber Still-Hunting

During rifle season, slow still-hunting through the dark timber between meadow systems is productive. Move 20-30 yards at a time, stop, glass ahead with binoculars, and listen. Snow cover on the Kaibab makes this tactic far more effective — you can track and hear movement in the dense forest.

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Elk Success Rates

Unit 12A elk success rates average 30-45% for rifle and 12-22% for archery. The strong herd, limited tags, and quality habitat drive consistently high success. Bull quality is above average with 300+ class bulls taken each year. This is a premium Arizona elk unit by any measure.

Elk Draw Odds

Draw odds data not available for this specific unit/species combination in our database.

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Unit 12A elk tags are highly competitive. Expect to need 12-20+ bonus points for rifle. Arizona's bonus point system means maximum points improve odds but do not guarantee a draw. Apply every year and leverage the loyalty bonus from consecutive applications. This is a top-tier elk unit that demands a long-term application commitment.

Mule Deer Hunting in Unit 12A

Unit 12A offers mule deer hunting on the legendary North Kaibab Plateau, one of the most storied mule deer destinations in North America. The Kaibab NF habitat from ponderosa parks to mixed conifer and aspen groves supports an exceptional mule deer herd. Bucks here grow wide, heavy antlers thanks to limited harvest, diverse browse, and ideal mountain habitat. This is a once-in-a-lifetime mule deer destination.

Where to Find Mule Deer in Unit 12A

Mule deer on the North Kaibab use the full plateau terrain, favoring browse-rich edges and transition zones.

Pinyon-Juniper Margins (6,500–7,500 ft)

The lower plateau edges where ponderosa transitions to pinyon-juniper hold excellent mule deer habitat. Bucks bed in the juniper pockets and feed on browse species along the ecotone. Glass these edges thoroughly at first and last light.

Aspen Pockets and Meadow Edges (8,000–9,000 ft)

The aspen groves and meadow edges on the upper plateau provide nutritious forbs and excellent escape cover. Bucks stage along the timber edges of the open parks between Highway 67 and the eastern boundary. Focus on these transitions for the best trophy encounters.

South-Facing Slopes

Late-season bucks congregate on south-facing slopes where snow melts first and exposes browse. The Kaibab's rolling terrain creates numerous glassable south-facing exposures that produce some of the best trophy encounters of the season.

How to Hunt Mule Deer in Unit 12A

Mule deer hunting on the North Kaibab is a glassing marathon. The open park system and browse-rich edges reward patience and optics.

Spot-and-Stalk Across the Parks

Set up on elevated vantage points overlooking transition zones and meadow edges. The Kaibab's open park system lets you cover enormous ground from a single position. Identify bucks worth pursuing, watch them bed, and plan a wind-conscious stalk.

Bedding Pattern Exploitation

Kaibab bucks bed predictably — typically on north-facing points or in juniper pockets with good visibility downhill. Once you pattern a buck's bedding area over a day or two of observation, plan your approach for early morning before he reaches his bed.

Rut Timing

The mule deer rut on the Kaibab peaks in mid-to-late November. Bucks that were invisible all season become active during daylight, cruising doe groups across the open parks. If your tag dates overlap the rut, hunt all day — midday buck sightings are common. Note that Highway 67 may close by this time, so plan accordingly.

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Mule Deer Success Rates

Archery15%

Rifle22%

Rifle success for mule deer in Unit 12A averages 50-70%, reflecting the outstanding buck density and limited hunter numbers on the Kaibab Plateau. Average buck quality is well above the Arizona statewide average, with Boone and Crockett class bucks taken regularly. The Kaibab's isolated plateau habitat and strict tag management produce exceptional results.

Mule Deer Draw Odds

Season	Tags	Applicants	Draw %	Pts Req
Archery— Early Archery	275	1,350	14.4%	0
Rifle— Early Rifle	275	1,438	13.8%	0

Data from 2024 draw results. Resident odds shown.

Open in Draw Odds Engine

Unit 12A mule deer tags are among the hardest to draw in Arizona. Expect to need 15-20+ bonus points for a reasonable chance. As with all Arizona draws, the bonus point system is random-weighted — maximum points improve odds significantly but do not guarantee selection. Apply consistently and build the loyalty bonus every year.

Pronghorn Hunting in Unit 12A

Units 12A and 12B combined host Arizona's famed North Kaibab pronghorn hunt in the House Rock Valley and adjacent grasslands. This is a once-in-a-lifetime-caliber hunt producing some of the largest pronghorn bucks in the West. Tags are extraordinarily limited with typical allocations of under 10 permits annually. The country between the Kaibab Plateau and the Vermilion Cliffs offers classic pronghorn habitat with reliable water developments and minimal pressure. Expect dramatic scenery and exceptional buck quality.

Where to Find Pronghorn in Units 12A/12B

North Kaibab pronghorn use open grasslands between the Kaibab Plateau and the Vermilion Cliffs.

House Rock Valley

The valley floor produces the unit's best bucks with open glassing lines.

Kaibab Plateau Edges

The open parks on the west and south edge of the plateau hold bucks seasonally.

Water Developments

BLM and AZGFD waters in the valley are critical — scout which are holding water.

How to Hunt Pronghorn in Units 12A/12B

Treat this like a once-in-a-lifetime hunt, because it effectively is.

Pre-Season Scouting

Arrive 4–7 days early. Inventory bucks thoroughly. Pattern water use.

Spot and Stalk

Open country supports long stalks using subtle terrain folds. Be patient.

Water Ambush

Warm-season hunts benefit from water-hole sits at developed tanks.

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Pronghorn Success Rates

Rifle82%

Archery48%

Units 12A/12B pronghorn success typically runs 85–100% with exceptional buck quality. Bucks in the 80+ inch range are routinely taken, with occasional giants exceeding 85 inches. Review the Success chart for current data.

Pronghorn Draw Odds

Season	Tags	Applicants	Draw %	Pts Req
Rifle— Early Rifle	3	184	1.6%	0
Archery— Early Archery	4	38	0.0%	0

Data from 2025 draw results. Resident odds shown.

Open in Draw Odds Engine

The 12A/12B pronghorn tag is one of the toughest draws in Arizona. Under AZGFD's weighted bonus-point system with Hunter Education bonus, successful residents typically hold 20–25+ bonus points. Even max-point applicants regularly miss in given years due to the random component. Non-resident odds are near-lottery. Apply every year.

Turkey Hunting in Unit 12A

Unit 12A is the storied Kaibab Plateau — the legendary mule deer unit also holding one of Arizona's best Merriam's turkey populations. Ponderosa pine, aspen-fir drainages, and big meadow parks cover the plateau between Jacob Lake and the Grand Canyon North Rim. With ~633 tags against 220 applicants over three years, Unit 12A turkey is essentially guaranteed in the main draw for residents and a strong bet for nonresidents. Birds are numerous and road access across the Kaibab NF is excellent.

Where to Find Turkeys in Unit 12A

Unit 12A turkeys use ponderosa parks and drainage roost trees across the plateau.

Jacob Lake Area

The ponderosa country around Jacob Lake and along SR-67 (spring: often closed to vehicles) holds roost flocks. Work FR 22 and the west-side spurs.

North Kaibab Big Parks

Large meadow parks like DeMotte Park (when accessible) and the smaller grass openings across the plateau are classic strut zones.

Warm Fire Edge and Drainage Heads

The 2006 Warm Fire mosaic burn edges attract strutting toms. Drainage heads with surviving big ponderosa are prime roost sites.

How to Hunt Turkeys in Unit 12A

12A is classic ponderosa roost hunting at 7,500–8,500 feet.

Roost the Night Before

Drive FR 22 and the secondary spurs at last light, listening for wing-flap. Big pines near drainage heads hold the best roost trees.

Dawn Setup

Set up 200–300 yards below a known roost before first light. Hen decoys and soft yelps after fly-down pull toms in.

Mid-Morning Cruise

After 9 a.m., walk ponderosa benches and call aggressively. 12A birds often respond late in the morning when early pressure has quieted.

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Turkey Success Rates

Shotgun35%

Unit 12A spring Merriam's success runs 35–50%. The plateau's bird density is excellent, though SR-67 closure in spring can limit access to the southern portion of the unit. Fall hunts (less common) run 15–25%.

Turkey Draw Odds

Season	Tags	Applicants	Draw %	Pts Req
Shotgun— Early Shotgun	250	91	89.0%	0

Data from 2023 draw results. Resident odds shown.

Open in Draw Odds Engine

Unit 12A turkey is one of Arizona's easiest draws — tag supply vastly exceeds demand. Arizona uses a weighted bonus-point system with Hunter Education bonus, but with ~633 tags against only 220 applicants over three years, residents routinely draw with 0 bonus points, and leftover tags are often available after the main draw. An excellent unit for point-savers or first-time AZ turkey hunters.

Unit Logistics & Expectations

Planning Notes

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RV Sites

DeMotte Campground and Jacob Lake Campground along Highway 67. RV-friendly sites available with limited hookups.

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Camp Sites

Extensive dispersed camping throughout Kaibab NF on the plateau. Numerous dirt roads provide access to flat camping areas off Highway 67.

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Trailer Access

Highway 67 is paved and handles all rig sizes. Forest roads vary — many require high clearance but are passable for short trailers.

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Water

Carry all water. Natural water is scarce on the plateau outside of stock tanks and seasonal springs. Jacob Lake has a small store and fuel. Fredonia or Kanab, UT for full water resupply.

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Road Conditions

Highway 67 is well-maintained but CLOSES seasonally (typically mid-November through mid-May). Forest roads range from graded gravel to rough two-track. 4WD recommended for most access roads. Check road status before planning late-season hunts.

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Terrain Difficulty

Moderate. Rolling plateau terrain with gentle grades through open forest and meadow systems. Not technically difficult but the unit is vast — be prepared to cover ground at 7,000-9,200 feet.

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Hunting Pressure

Low. Very limited tag allocation and seasonal road closures keep hunter density minimal on the Kaibab.

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Weather

Cold. Fall temps 15-50°F. Snow is common from October on at elevation. Highway 67 may close with early heavy snow. Prepare for winter conditions — the Kaibab is isolated.

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Cell Service

No service on most of the plateau. Spotty signal near Jacob Lake. Satellite communicator essential.

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Nearest Town

Jacob Lake (very limited — fuel and small store). Fredonia (45 min north) and Kanab, UT (60 min) for full services. Flagstaff is 3+ hours south.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Unit 12A a trophy elk unit?

Yes. Unit 12A on the North Kaibab is one of Arizona's premier elk units, consistently producing 300+ class bulls. The combination of isolated plateau habitat, limited tag allocation, and seasonal road closures that protect the herd grows exceptional animals.

How many bonus points for Unit 12A elk?

Most successful applicants hold 12-20+ bonus points. Arizona's random-weighted draw means points improve odds but do not guarantee a tag. Apply every year without exception to build bonus points and the loyalty bonus.

When does Highway 67 close and how does it affect hunting?

Highway 67 typically closes mid-November due to snow and does not reopen until mid-May. Late-season hunts must account for the potential road closure — check ADOT road conditions before departing. If the highway closes while you are on the plateau, you may need to wait for plowing.

Is the North Kaibab really that good for mule deer?

Yes. The Kaibab Plateau has produced more Boone and Crockett mule deer than almost any unit in the West. The combination of limited harvest, diverse browse species, isolated plateau habitat, and mild summer conditions grows exceptionally heavy-antlered bucks consistently.

What caliber should I bring for Kaibab mule deer?

A flat-shooting rifle in .270 Win, .280 AI, 6.5 PRC, or .300 Win Mag is ideal. Shots can range from 100 to 400+ yards across the open parks and meadows. Bring a solid rest and practice at distance before arriving.

How long does it take to draw a Unit 12A/12B pronghorn tag?

Most hunters wait 18–25+ years. Under Arizona's weighted bonus-point system with Hunter Education bonus, max-point applicants have the best odds but the random component means draws are not guaranteed. Non-residents face even longer waits.

Is Unit 12A/12B better than Unit 13A for pronghorn?

Both produce outstanding bucks. Unit 12A/12B is typically even more limited on tags than 13A, pushing trophy potential slightly higher. Apply for both and let the draw decide which you hunt first.

Is Unit 12A turkey a guaranteed draw?

Essentially, yes — for residents with 0 points. ~633 tags vs. 220 applicants over three years means leftover tags are commonly available after the main draw. Nonresidents face the 10% cap but still have strong odds.

Is SR-67 open for the spring turkey season?

Typically no — SR-67 closes mid-December and reopens mid-May, often after turkey season ends. Access to the southern plateau requires FR 22 and secondary forest roads.

Can I combine a Unit 12A turkey hunt with deer scouting?

Yes, and many AZ hunters do. Spring turkey hunting is an excellent chance to scout the Kaibab Plateau for the legendary mule deer hunts later in the year.

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Sources & Verification

Every fact on this page is tied to a primary source below. Last fact-checked 2026-04-17.

GMU 12A — Expanded Hunt Information (August 2025) — Arizona Game and Fish Department · supports: Unit boundaries and land ownership categories, Species present in the unit, Seasonal distribution and hunt areas, Habitat and access notes · accessed 2026-04-16
GMU 12A — Unit Landing Page — Arizona Game and Fish Department · supports: Canonical unit info page · accessed 2026-04-16
2026 Arizona Pronghorn and Elk Regulations — Arizona Game and Fish Department · supports: Season structure, Tag quotas, Hunt area boundaries · accessed 2026-04-16
2025-26 Arizona Hunting Regulations — Arizona Game and Fish Department · supports: Season structure, Bag limits, Legal equipment · accessed 2026-04-16
AZGFD Draw Portal — Hunt Drawing Information — Arizona Game and Fish Department · supports: Bonus point system, Draw application portal, Historical draw data · accessed 2026-04-16
AZGFD Pronghorn Species Page — Arizona Game and Fish Department · supports: North Kaibab pronghorn management, Trophy unit designation, Population history · accessed 2026-04-17
Kaibab National Forest — North Kaibab Ranger District — USDA Forest Service · supports: North Kaibab access, Forest roads, Dispersed camping · accessed 2026-04-17
AZGFD Turkey Hunting — Arizona Game and Fish Department · supports: Merriam's turkey on the Kaibab Plateau, Unit 12A tag allocation, Spring and fall turkey seasons, Hunter-education bonus · accessed 2026-04-17

Unit 12A (North Kaibab)

Elk Hunting in Unit 12A

Where to Find Elk in Unit 12A

High Plateau Parks and Mixed Conifer (8,500–9,200 ft)

Ponderosa Belt (7,000–8,500 ft)

Water and Meadow Systems

How to Hunt Elk in Unit 12A

Elk Success Rates

Elk Draw Odds

Mule Deer Hunting in Unit 12A

Where to Find Mule Deer in Unit 12A

Pinyon-Juniper Margins (6,500–7,500 ft)

Aspen Pockets and Meadow Edges (8,000–9,000 ft)

South-Facing Slopes

How to Hunt Mule Deer in Unit 12A

Mule Deer Success Rates

Mule Deer Draw Odds

Pronghorn Hunting in Unit 12A

Where to Find Pronghorn in Units 12A/12B

House Rock Valley

Kaibab Plateau Edges

Water Developments

How to Hunt Pronghorn in Units 12A/12B

Pronghorn Success Rates

Pronghorn Draw Odds

Turkey Hunting in Unit 12A

Where to Find Turkeys in Unit 12A

Jacob Lake Area

North Kaibab Big Parks

Warm Fire Edge and Drainage Heads

How to Hunt Turkeys in Unit 12A

Turkey Success Rates

Turkey Draw Odds

Unit Logistics & Expectations

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