Exo Journal

Mark Huelsing
Common Mistakes (Beginner) Backpack Hunters Make

Common Mistakes (Beginner) Backpack Hunters Make

Although each one of us is on a unique hunting journey, there are undoubtedly some common mistakes that most new backpack hunters make. Perhaps, though, you can avoid these common pitfalls if you learn about them now. Let's look at the common mistakes and how to avoid them...

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Mark Huelsing
"FIRST" — An Idaho Youth Elk Hunt Film

"FIRST" — An Idaho Youth Elk Hunt Film

"We've dedicated ourselves to the pursuit of game, finding meaning and fulfillment in every hunt. As a father, there's nothing quite like witnessing your child experience that thrill for the first time. Watch as my son, Jackson, embarks on his first elk hunt, to notch his tag and make memories that will last a lifetime."

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Mark Huelsing
2024 Exo Death Hike — A Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim Hike of the Grand Canyon

2024 Exo Death Hike — A Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim Hike of the Grand Canyon

This year, for the first time on an Exo Death Hike, the entire hike took place on an established trail. We embarked upon a Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim hike of the Grand Canyon. Starting at the South Rim, we descended more than 4,700' in elevation down the South Kaibab trail. Crossing the Colorado River, we continued putting on miles in the depths of the Canyon before ascending more than 5,800' up the North Kaibab Trail to the Grand Canyon's North Rim. From one side of the Grand Canyon to the other. And back again. In total, we hiked more than 50 miles, climbed...

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The Ethical Dilemma of a Bad Hit — Keep Hunting or Notch Your Tag?

The Ethical Dilemma of a Bad Hit — Keep Hunting or Notch Your Tag?

We had been hunting hard for seven days, but no arrows had taken flight. With 45 minutes left of light, we spotted a great bull about a mile out. Like hungry coyotes, we quickly moved through the dense high desert to close the distance before nightfall. As the sun dipped into the horizon, we were presented with a great shot opportunity. We heard the arrow hit, watched the bull run off, and decided to give it time. After a frosty night, we picked up the blood trail, but couldn't find the bull. The search continued until we found ourselves with...

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