
Early winter snows requires migration in deep snow for bighorn

A group of ewes at the metamorphic - granitic boundary common in Pine Creek
Wheeler Ridge is a population that was intially reestablished in 1982 with 15 ewes. Over the past 35 years the population has grown to over 100 individuals. The Wheeler herd was productive enough to provide source stock for a natural colonization of the Convict Creek herd to the north in about 2009 as well as 11 ewes for translaction to start the Cathedral herd in 2016.
Since the low-elevation winter range is relatively easy to access it is a good place to see bighorn from December to early April. When there is less snow, Pine Creek can be a good viewing area from the paved road, while rougher dirt roads and hiking provide access to the east-side canyons (Wells, Mayfield and Levergate) for years of higher snowfall.