How to Train in the Summer Heat for High-Elevation Elk Hunts

Preparing for a New Mexico elk hunt means more than just packing the right gear and dialing in your rifle or bow - it means getting your body ready for high elevation and steep terrain. And for most hunters, that training happens during the heat of the summer.

At LOH Outfitters, we guide elk hunters across New Mexico’s most demanding terrain - often at elevations between 7,000 and 10,000 feet. Hunters who show up in shape have more stamina, cover more ground, and ultimately see more elk.

Here’s how to safely and effectively train in summer heat for high-altitude elk hunts - so when it’s time to go uphill, you’re ready.

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1. Focus on Functional Conditioning, Not Just Cardio

Running on a treadmill is a start - but it’s not enough. Elk hunting demands strength, balance, and endurance across variable terrain. Your training should mimic real hunting conditions:

• Hike with a weighted pack (30-50 lbs)
• Use stair climbs, incline treadmills, or hills
• Mix in full-body strength training - especially legs and core
• Add exercises like lunges, step-ups, squats, and deadlifts

When possible, train outside to acclimate to heat, sun, and natural terrain. Just be smart about hydration and timing (more on that below).

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2. Train in the Heat - But Smartly

Yes, training in hot weather can simulate the fatigue and stress of long days in the mountains. But heat stress can also be dangerous if managed incorrectly.

Tips for safe summer training:

• Train early in the morning or late in the evening
• Hydrate before, during, and after every session
• Wear moisture-wicking, light-colored gear
• Increase intensity gradually - especially in high humidity
• Know the signs of heat exhaustion: dizziness, headache, nausea, rapid pulse

If you push too hard, too fast, you’ll risk setbacks. Train smarter to build endurance, not just to sweat.

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3. Incorporate Elevation Training - Even if You’re at Sea Level

You don’t have to live in the Rockies to train for elevation. Try these techniques:

• Use a weighted vest or backpack on all hikes
• Practice breathing through your nose to control heart rate
• Do hill sprints or hiking intervals to simulate climbs
• If possible, schedule 1-2 weekend trips to higher elevation areas near you

Once you’re above 8,000 feet in New Mexico, everything becomes more challenging. Your heart rate spikes faster, and recovery takes longer. Train now so your body isn’t shocked on day one.

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4. Don’t Forget Recovery and Mobility

Rest is part of training. If you overtrain and neglect your joints, you’ll increase the risk of injury right before your hunt.

Include:

• Foam rolling and stretching sessions 3-4x per week
• Mobility work for hips, ankles, and shoulders
• Yoga or dynamic warmups to improve range of motion

You want to be strong and mobile - not stiff, sore, and slow.

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5. Train With Your Hunting Gear

Nothing beats practicing with the pack, boots, and clothing you’ll wear in September.

• Break in your boots on long hikes
• Adjust your pack under load - test pockets, hydration, balance
• Get used to shooting with your pack on (bow or rifle)

Summer training is the time to test and tweak your system - not opening morning on the side of a ridge.

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6. Fuel Like You Hunt

During your hunt, you’ll be burning 3,000-5,000 calories a day. Prepare now by fueling your workouts like you're in the mountains:

• Increase protein intake for muscle recovery
• Test electrolyte mixes like Mountain Ops or Wilderness Athlete
• Try field-ready snacks like jerky, trail mix, and energy bars

This will help you avoid cramping, fatigue, and energy crashes - especially at altitude.

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Final Thoughts: Train for the Hunt You Want

A high-elevation elk hunt in New Mexico isn’t easy - but that’s why you’re doing it. You’re there for the challenge. The experience. The payoff.

Training in the summer heat gives you a physical and mental edge when it matters most.

Because when you’re hiking into a basin with bugles ringing and your heart pounding, the last thing you want to worry about is whether you’re fit enough to make the climb - or steady enough to take the shot.

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Hunt With the Pros at LOH Outfitters

At LOH Outfitters, we guide hunters through the most physically rewarding elk hunts in New Mexico - from private land archery hunts to high-country rifle adventures. We’ll help you train smarter, hunt harder, and put yourself in position to tag a mature bull.

Contact us today to learn more about available hunts, gear advice, and how to get in the best shape of your hunting life before the season starts.