At Dropstone, we believe a great hunt is as much about the experience as the harvest. Our guided elk hunts immerse you in true backcountry adventure—rugged ridges, remote valleys, and the thrill of pursuing elk deep in the Bob Marshall Wilderness, one of Montana’s wildest and most iconic landscapes.

Most of our hunts are archery-focused, designed for hunters who crave challenge, solitude, and the reward of hard-earned success. This is steep and deep country—classic elk habitat with timbered draws, open meadows, and abundant sign. You’ll consistently see and hear elk and have real opportunities to get in close. It’s demanding country that calls for fitness, determination, and a love of adventure.

Our guided hunts include everything you need for a comfortable and well-supported wilderness experience: expert guides who know the Bob Marshall inside and out, hearty meals, a well-equipped camp, and full packing services. You hunt—we handle the rest.

For those who prefer a little more independence, we also offer drop camps, giving you the freedom to hunt on your own with the convenience of camp setup and stock support.

Along with elk, our hunters also have opportunities for mule deer in this same spectacular country.

Whether you’re chasing bugles with a bow or glassing the ridges at dawn, an elk hunt with Dropstone is about more than filling a tag—it’s about the challenge, the camaraderie, and the wild beauty of the Bob Marshall Wilderness.

Spring and fall in the Bob Marshall Wilderness offer incredible opportunities for black bear hunting in some of Montana’s most pristine and rugged country. Our hunting area supports a healthy and sustainable bear population, providing a true fair-chase experience in remote, wild terrain.

Archery hunts are available before September 15, with both archery and rifle options offered after September 15. Whether you prefer the up-close challenge of a bow or the reach and versatility of a rifle, our experienced guides tailor each hunt to your abilities and goals.

Hunters may harvest adult black bears over one year of age that are not accompanied by cubs. These are rewarding hunts that blend adventure, challenge, and the unmatched beauty of the Bob Marshall Wilderness—where every day in the field brings new sights and sounds of truly wild country.

As with all our guided trips, you’ll enjoy expert guiding, hearty meals, a comfortable backcountry camp, and full packing services. For those seeking greater independence, drop camp options are also available.

A black bear hunt with Dropstone is an authentic wilderness experience—one that captures the essence of adventure in the Bob Marshall, where the journey itself is every bit as memorable as the harvest.

For hunters fortunate enough to draw a tag in District 441 (bighorn sheep) or District 415 (mountain goat), Dropstone can provide expert guidance and support. These hunts take you into rugged, remote high-country terrain where preparation and experience are key. Hunters must apply for the lottery by May 1st of the hunting year.

Contact us for details and planning assistance—we’ll help ensure your once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in Montana’s spectacular mountains is well-supported and memorable.

Jared Eckhardt
Jared has been part of the Dropstone team off and on since 2016. An accomplished hunting and fishing guide by profession, he brings extensive experience and skill to every trip. Jared has guided numerous hunts at Circus Creek and possesses a deep knowledge of the terrain and elk patterns throughout the South Fork of the Birch Creek area. His expertise, work ethic, and steady presence make him a trusted guide in the field.

Johnny Rappold
Johnny grew up hunting in the Birch Creek area and knows its rugged country like the back of his hand. A dedicated and determined guide, he’s known for going the extra mile—literally—to get his clients on elk or black bear. Smart, observant, and patient, Johnny combines his strong hunting instincts with a thoughtful approach that consistently delivers memorable experiences in the field.

Josh Van Setten
Though relatively new to guiding, Josh brings over twenty years of personal hunting experience along the Rocky Mountain Front and throughout the Birch Creek drainages. An endurance athlete with a deep appreciation for the landscape, he approaches every hunt with enthusiasm and energy. Known for his positive attitude and readiness to tackle any challenge, Josh’s combination of skill, stamina, and good humor makes him a valuable addition to the Dropstone crew.