Where are the best locations to hunt elk in RDR2?

Hunting elk in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a rewarding activity that provides valuable resources like meat, antlers, and pelts. Elk are large, majestic animals found in specific regions of the map, and hunting them requires preparation, patience, and the right tools. To maximize your success, you’ll need to understand their behavior, preferred habitats, and the best hunting strategies.\n\nElk are most commonly found in the northern and western regions of the map, particularly in areas with dense forests and open plains. Key locations include Big Valley, Cumberland Forest, and the area around Cattail Pond. These regions offer a mix of open spaces and tree cover, making them ideal for spotting elk while staying hidden. Use your binoculars or Eagle Eye ability to scan the horizon for elk herds, which typically consist of 3-5 individuals.\n\nTo hunt elk effectively, you’ll need the right weapons and ammunition. A rifle, such as the Springfield Rifle or Bolt Action Rifle, is ideal for taking down elk in one clean shot. Use High-Velocity or Express ammo to ensure a clean kill, as elk are large and require significant firepower. Aim for the head or heart to preserve the quality of the pelt. A poor shot can damage the pelt, reducing its value and usefulness for crafting.\n\nElk are skittish animals, so stealth is crucial. Approach them slowly on foot or horseback, staying downwind to avoid detection. Use cover like trees or rocks to hide your movements. If you spook the herd, they will scatter and run, making it harder to track them. Crouching and using the Slow and Steady ability can help you get closer without alerting them. Additionally, using cover scent lotion can mask your scent, giving you an edge.\n\nOne common challenge is tracking elk after they’ve been spooked. If the herd runs, use Eagle Eye to follow their tracks. Look for broken branches, hoof prints, and droppings to determine their direction. Elk often run in a straight line, so follow their path until you catch up. If you lose them, return to the original location and wait for them to respawn, as elk herds tend to reappear in the same areas.\n\nFor a practical example, head to Big Valley, west of Strawberry. This area is teeming with elk, especially near the Little Creek River. Set up camp nearby to save time and use the area as a hunting ground. Another great spot is Cumberland Forest, northeast of Valentine. The dense woods and open meadows here are perfect for elk hunting. Finally, Cattail Pond, northwest of Valentine, is a smaller but reliable location for finding elk.\n\nOnce you’ve successfully hunted an elk, skin it to collect the pelt, meat, and antlers. These items can be sold to butchers or used for crafting at the Trapper. Perfect elk pelts are especially valuable for crafting high-tier clothing and satchels. Store the pelt on your horse and transport it carefully, as it can be lost if your horse dies or you fast travel.\n\nIn summary, the best locations to hunt elk in RDR2 are Big Valley, Cumberland Forest, and Cattail Pond. Use a rifle with high-powered ammo, approach stealthily, and aim for clean kills to preserve pelt quality. With patience and practice, you’ll master elk hunting and reap the rewards of this challenging but satisfying activity.