Bridger-Teton National Forest was filled with shed hunters early Monday morning

JACKSON, Wyoming (KIFI) - 6:00 a.m. Monday saw more than 200 vehicles filled with shed hunters enter the Bridger-Teton National Forest from the National Elk Refuge, many who came from out of state possibly for the last time.

However, many of the shed hunters who got up early were in a rush to get to their spot, hoping to find their hidden gems.

"I think this is a good year to look for deadheads, especially with all the elk still on the refuge. Maybe the ones that were up here didn't make it," Jess Laughter siad.

"I was super stoked. I came across the first one, and I knew that the second one was close, so I just kept looking and found it," Naeve Ellis said.

"The elk numbers were kind of down outside the park this year, so we knew it was going to be a little tougher, but we did okay. We got a couple. And Josiah got his first," Harlan Glass said.

Many came to Jackson for the first time Monday. All were searching for their prize.

"It was an experience. First time doing this. The Jackson Hole had an experience and had my kid with me. He did well. He picked up quite a few. Sounds like I. We got to meet up with him yet. Then I talked to him on the phone...I just wanted to do it once,  so see what it's all about," James Little said.

"I was so stoked to be able to come. My parents came here last year and I just. I had to convince them to let me come with them," Tessa Williams said.

Other shed hunters had high expectations but came away empty-handed.

"I was pretty stoked for the one big one is far up in the line as we were. We expected to clean house or pick up a lot more than we did just based on years past. But with the weather and the snowpack this year, a lot more elk shed on the refuge as we're talking to the biologists have said up to 75% of them shed on the refuge," Brad Robinson said.

Overall, many of the hunters who participated in the hunt kickoff said to be in the hills and hiking with friends.

"Even if I didn't find anything.  It's just all about the experience. It was fun," Ellis said.

"Super worth it. Just being here. It's so beautiful and beautiful weather," Williams said.

"Always something fun to take home.  I think this one's going to go just somewhere on the house,  on the wall, maybe on top of the garage," Laughter said.

Many of the hunters were hoping to come back next year and have another successful hunt.