What are the best hiding spots to avoid bounty hunters in the wilderness?

Avoiding bounty hunters in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a mix of strategy, knowledge of the game world, and understanding of game mechanics. Bounty hunters are relentless and will track you down if you have a high bounty in a specific region. To evade them, you need to use the wilderness to your advantage by finding hiding spots that break their line of sight and make it difficult for them to track you.\n\nOne of the best ways to avoid bounty hunters is to use dense forests and mountainous terrain. Locations like Tall Trees, Big Valley, and the Grizzlies East region are ideal for hiding. These areas have thick foliage, rocky outcrops, and elevation changes that make it harder for bounty hunters to spot you. When being pursued, ride into these areas and dismount your horse to reduce your visibility. Crouch and move slowly to avoid making noise, as bounty hunters can detect movement and sound.\n\nAnother effective strategy is to use caves and rock formations. For example, the cave system near Elysian Pool in New Hanover is an excellent hiding spot. Enter the cave and stay deep inside to avoid detection. Similarly, the rocky cliffs near Cumberland Forest provide natural cover. Climb to higher ground and use the terrain to your advantage. Bounty hunters rarely venture into these areas, and if they do, they are easier to pick off from a distance.\n\nWater bodies like rivers and lakes can also help you evade bounty hunters. If you are near a river, such as the Dakota River or Kamassa River, swim across to create distance between you and your pursuers. Bounty hunters will often lose track of you if you stay submerged or use the water to break their line of sight. Additionally, you can hide in the reeds or tall grass near the shoreline to remain undetected.\n\nUsing stealth items like cover scent lotion and wearing appropriate clothing can also improve your chances of avoiding bounty hunters. Cover scent lotion masks your scent, making it harder for bounty hunters and their dogs to track you. Equip clothing that blends with the environment, such as earthy tones for forests or snowy outfits for the Grizzlies. This reduces your visibility and makes it easier to hide in plain sight.\n\nIf you are caught in an open area with no immediate hiding spots, use distractions to create an escape opportunity. Throw dynamite or fire bottles to create chaos and scatter the bounty hunters. Alternatively, use your horse to lead them away while you hide. Call your horse back once the coast is clear.\n\nFinally, always keep an eye on your mini-map for red dots indicating bounty hunters. If you see them approaching, move to a pre-planned hiding spot before they get too close. Remember, staying calm and thinking ahead is key to surviving encounters with bounty hunters in the wilderness.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry cover scent lotion, use the terrain to your advantage, and plan escape routes in advance. Avoid open areas when you have a high bounty, and always be ready to dismount and hide if necessary.