An American Elk Story: THE COMEBACK

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Dawn breaks on a crisp cool morning. A bugle in the distance harkens a season of opportunity to match wits with one of North America’s iconic ungulates, the Rocky Mountain elk. In the not so distant past, this hunt might not have been possible, but today hunters from the Pacific coast to Appalachian country can pursue elk in their native habitats.

From historic population lows in the early-20th century to the present day’s abundant hunt opportunity, the rebound of Rocky Mountain elk is one of conservation’s greatest untold North American success stories. Today’s elk abundance is the result of focused reintroductions, careful habitat and herd management.

This story is an example of how targeted collaboration benefits not just a single species, but all wildlife and the people that enjoy them. Elk hunting opportunities are more available than ever from the Western to Eastern United States. The forward-thinking work of organizations such as Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) has been critical to growing the robust elk populations the United States boasts today. RMEF’s strategic land acquisitions and habitat improvements have contributed and continue to benefit open, working landscapes safeguarding an American legacy of wildlife stewardship and sustainable hunting tradition. Eastmans has partnered with RMEF to celebrate elk and chronicle the story of their success. From the vast landscapes of the West to the northern forests of Michigan and the steamy hills of Kentucky, elk captivate North America’s hunters. Rightfully so; there is perhaps no more majestic game animal on our continent. Enjoy the film live at RMEF’s Big Game Days July 16-19 in Missoula, Montana or on YouTube, Saturday, July 18, 2026 and Field & Stream TV. Cheers to elk and elk hunting!