The Western Hunting and Conservation Expo 2026 returns to Salt Lake City from February 12-15, 2026, at the Salt Palace Convention Center, bringing together the hunting community’s largest gathering for conservation, outdoor gear, and once-in-a-lifetime hunting opportunities. This premier event offers 200 premium Utah hunting permits through a $5 public drawing, four days of exhibits from hundreds of vendors, live auctions featuring world-class hunts, educational seminars, and entertainment events—all while raising millions for wildlife conservation and habitat improvement projects across the state.
Whether you’re an experienced hunter looking to score one of Utah’s most coveted tags, a beginner seeking expert guidance, or simply passionate about wildlife conservation, the Utah Hunting EXPO delivers unmatched access to guides, outfitters, gear manufacturers, and conservation organizations from across North America. Here’s everything you need to plan your visit to North America’s premier hunting and conservation event.
Event Dates and Location Details
When: February 12-15, 2026
Where: Salt Palace Convention Center, 100 South West Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Complete Daily Schedule
Understanding the daily schedule helps you maximize your expo experience and ensures you don’t miss critical deadlines for permit validation or special events.
Wednesday, February 11, 2026
- Event Registration: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Room 150 G)
Thursday, February 12, 2026
- Event Registration: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Room 150 G)
- 200 Permits Application Validation: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Room 250)
- Exhibit Hall Admission Tickets: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Exhibit Hall Open: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Seminars: 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM (Room 254)
- Super Banquet & Fundraiser: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Grand Ballroom)
- Entertainment: Kaleb Austin
Friday, February 13, 2026
- Event Registration: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Room 150 G)
- 200 Permits Application Validation: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Room 250)
- Exhibit Hall Open: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Seminars: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (Room 254)
- Ladies Luncheon: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Room 355)
- Expo Day Auction: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM (Grand Ballroom)
- State Champion Duck and Goose Calling Contest: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Room 255)
- Conservation Night Auction & Fundraiser: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Grand Ballroom)
- Entertainment: Coffey Anderson
Saturday, February 14, 2026
- MDF Tough Buck Competition: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM (North Upper Mezzanine)
- Sheep Camp Meeting: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Grand Ballroom)
- State Champion Duck and Goose Calling Contest: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Room 255)
- MDF Volunteer Recognition Event: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM (Marriott City Creek Ballroom)
- Event Registration: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Room 150 G)
- 200 Permits Application Validation: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Room 250)
- Exhibit Hall Open: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Seminars: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (Room 150 G)
- Elk Calling Contest: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Room 151)
- Grand Finale Auction & Entertainment: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Grand Ballroom)
- Entertainment: Parmalee
Sunday, February 15, 2026
- Sportsman’s Chapel: 8:30 AM – 9:45 AM (Room 254)
- 200 Permits Application Validation: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Room 250) – FINAL DEADLINE
- Exhibit Hall Admission Tickets: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Exhibit Hall Open: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Seminars: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM (Room 254)
Admission Tickets and Pricing
Daily Exhibit Hall Admission
Getting into the exhibit hall doesn’t require full registration, making it accessible for casual visitors and serious hunters alike.
| Ticket Type | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Single Day | $25 | Access to exhibit hall for one day |
| Youth (12-17) Single Day | $10 | Discounted youth admission |
| Youth (11 and Under) | FREE | Free admission for children |
| 4-Day Pass | Included in registration packages | Full four-day access |
Where to Buy: Available at Main Tower, South Hall, North Lower Mezzanine Hall 4, and West (Delta Center) Hall 5 entrances during operating hours.
Full Event Registration Packages
For attendees wanting the complete experience, registration packages offer significant value and include multiple events.
1. Full Registration Package – $450
This comprehensive package includes:
- 4-Day Exhibit Hall Pass ($100 value)
- Friday Day Auction admission ($25 value)
- Friday Conservation Night Fundraising Auction and Entertainment ($250 value)
- Saturday Grand Finale Celebration Auction and Entertainment ($275 value)
- Annual memberships to both MDF and SFW ($70 value)
Total Value: $720 – You Save $270
2. Full Registration Plus Thursday Super Banquet – $560
Everything in the Full Registration Package plus:
- Thursday Super Banquet Fundraiser and Entertainment ($125 value)
Total Value: $845 – You Save $285
3. Full Registration Plus Friday Ladies Luncheon – $550
Everything in the Full Registration Package plus:
- Friday Ladies Luncheon themed “Let’s Bungle in the Jungle” ($110 value)
Total Value: $830 – You Save $280
4. Ultimate Package – $640
The most comprehensive option includes everything:
- 4-Day Exhibit Hall Pass
- Thursday Super Banquet
- Friday Ladies Luncheon
- Friday Conservation Night event
- Saturday Grand Finale Celebration
- MDF and SFW memberships
Total Value: $955 – You Save $315
Individual Event Tickets
Can’t commit to full registration? Individual event tickets are available:
| Event | Price | Day/Time |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday Super Banquet | $125 | February 12, 6:00 PM |
| Friday Ladies Luncheon | $110 ($900 for table of 10) | February 13, 11:00 AM |
| Friday Day Auction | $25 | February 13, 12:00 PM |
| Friday Conservation Night | $250 ($2,250 for table of 10) | February 13, 7:00 PM |
| Saturday Grand Finale | $275 ($2,500 for table of 10) | February 14, 7:00 PM |
| Sheep Camp (various packages) | $50-$500 | February 14, 9:00 AM |
Utah’s Top 200 Premium Hunting Permits
The 200 permit drawing represents one of the most coveted opportunities in Western hunting, offering premium limited-entry and once-in-a-lifetime tags.
How the 200 Permits Work
Application Fee: $5 per hunt unit application
Eligibility: Anyone legally eligible to hunt in Utah (not currently on revocation)
Bonus Points: Your bonus points are NOT affected if you draw a limited-entry permit
Waiting Period: Drawing a once-in-a-lifetime permit DOES trigger the waiting period for that species
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Get Your Utah Hunting License
You must possess a valid Utah hunting license or combination hunting/fishing license before applying. Purchase yours at the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.
Step 2: Apply Online
Submit your applications online at www.200permits.com before arriving at the Expo. You’ll need:
- Your date of birth
- Current Utah hunting license number
- $5 application fee per hunt unit (no refunds)
Step 3: Validate In Person – CRITICAL STEP
This is the most important requirement many applicants miss. You must validate your application in person at the Expo to be included in the drawing:
- Location: Room 250, Salt Palace Convention Center
- Validation Hours:
- Thursday, February 12: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday, February 13: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday, February 14: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday, February 15: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (FINAL DEADLINE)
- Required Documentation: Current driver’s license or government-issued ID
- Youth Exception: Youth applicants don’t need ID but must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
Warning: If you fail to validate in person by 4:00 PM on Sunday, February 15, 2026, your application is invalid and you will NOT be included in the drawing. There are no refunds.
What Permits Are Available
The 200 permits include Utah’s most sought-after tags:
- Limited-Entry Deer (multiple units)
- Premium Elk Units
- Desert Bighorn Sheep
- Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep
- Mountain Goat
- Moose
- Bison
- Antelope (multiple units)
To learn more about Utah’s statewide hunting regulations and season dates, including important compliance requirements, visit this comprehensive resource.
Drawing Results and Timeline
- The drawing is conducted within 10 days after the Expo closes
- Successful applicants’ names and permits are posted online at HuntExpo.com
- Winners receive notification via email and phone
- All $5 application fees fund wildlife conservation projects in Utah
Important Permit Rules
- No Proxy Applications: You cannot apply on behalf of another person
- Apply for Multiple Units: You can apply for as many available permits as you wish
- Traditional Draw Still Available: Drawing an Expo permit doesn’t prevent you from applying in Utah’s traditional big game drawing
- Double Draw Scenario: If you draw both an Expo permit and a traditional draw permit for the same species, you must choose one
- Funds Stay Local: All application fee revenue remains in Utah for wildlife conservation projects
Exhibit Hall and Vendors
The exhibit hall showcases the outdoor industry’s finest products, services, and hunting opportunities across multiple halls at the Salt Palace.
What to Expect in the Exhibit Hall
Size and Scope: Hundreds of exhibitors spanning multiple convention center halls
Categories Represented:
- Hunting outfitters (North America, Africa, South America, Europe, Asia, Oceania)
- Firearms and ammunition manufacturers
- Archery equipment and accessories
- Optics and rangefinders
- Hunting apparel and footwear
- Game calls and attractants
- Trail cameras and electronics
- Taxidermy services
- Wildlife art and collectibles
- Conservation organizations
- State wildlife agencies
- Hunting publications and media
Featured Exhibitor Categories
International Hunting Outfitters
The Expo brings together outfitters representing hunting opportunities worldwide:
- African Safaris: Plains game, dangerous game, and specialty species
- Canadian Hunts: Moose, caribou, bear, and sheep
- Alaska Adventures: Brown bear, moose, caribou, sheep, and goat
- Mexico Hunts: Desert sheep, Coues deer, and exotics
- South America: Red stag, water buffalo, and specialty species
- New Zealand: Red stag, tahr, chamois, and fallow deer
- European Hunts: Ibex, chamois, red deer, and mouflon
Gear and Equipment Manufacturers
Top brands showcase their latest innovations:
- Premium rifles, shotguns, and muzzleloaders
- Compound bows, crossbows, and traditional archery
- Riflescopes, binoculars, and spotting scopes
- Technical hunting clothing for all climates
- Boots designed for mountain and backcountry hunting
- GPS devices and mobile apps
- Game processing equipment
- Camping and backpacking gear
Conservation Organizations
Meet representatives from groups actively improving wildlife habitat:
- Mule Deer Foundation (MDF)
- Sportsmen for Fish and Wildlife (SFW)
- Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation
- Wild Sheep Foundation
- National Wild Turkey Federation
- Ducks Unlimited
- Pheasants Forever
Navigating the Exhibit Hall
Floor Map Access: View the interactive exhibit hall floor map at the official event map page
Pro Tips for Exhibit Hall Success:
- Download the Western Hunt Expo app (search “Western Hunt Expo” in Google Play or App Store)
- Arrive early on Thursday for the smallest crowds
- Wear comfortable walking shoes—you’ll cover miles
- Bring business cards for quick information exchange
- Take photos of booth numbers for products that interest you
- Budget time to speak with outfitters about multi-year trip planning
- Visit conservation organization booths to learn about projects your permit fees support
Special Events and Entertainment
Beyond the exhibit hall, the Expo offers multiple entertainment and fundraising events that support conservation efforts.
Thursday Super Banquet
Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Grand Ballroom
Price: $125 per person
Entertainment: Kaleb Austin
Kick off the Expo with this fun-filled evening featuring:
- Full dinner service
- Interactive games and contests
- Live auction items
- Prize drawings
- Live musical entertainment
Friday Events
Ladies Luncheon: “Let’s Bungle in the Jungle”
Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Room 355
Price: $110 per person (or $900 for a reserved table of 10)
A special event designed for women in the hunting and outdoor community featuring:
- Themed jungle décor and atmosphere
- Networking opportunities
- Guest speakers
- Fashion show
- Prize giveaways
Day Auction
Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Grand Ballroom
Price: $25 per person
An afternoon auction featuring quality hunting trips, gear packages, and experiences at more accessible price points.
Conservation Night Auction and Banquet
Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Grand Ballroom
Price: $250 per person ($2,250 for table of 10)
Entertainment: Coffey Anderson
The premier Friday evening event celebrating conservation and patriotism:
- Formal banquet dinner
- High-end auction items including trophy hunts worldwide
- Recognition of conservation achievements
- Live country music entertainment
- Assigned seating
Saturday Events
MDF Tough Buck Competition
Time: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: North Upper Mezzanine
Test your skills in this challenging competition. Register online through the Expo website.
Sheep Camp Meeting
Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Grand Ballroom
Ticket Packages: $50 – $500
Ten fully guided wild sheep hunts will be given away through this popular program. Limited seating available—secure tickets early at SheepCamp.net.
State Champion Duck and Goose Calling Contest
Times: Friday 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Room 255
Watch top callers compete for state championship titles in various calling categories.
Elk Calling Contest
Time: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Room 151
Competitors demonstrate their elk calling skills in this exciting Saturday afternoon competition.
Grand Finale Celebration
Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Grand Ballroom
Price: $275 per person ($2,500 for table of 10)
Entertainment: Parmalee
The Expo’s signature closing event features:
- Premium banquet service
- The most valuable auction items of the weekend
- Once-in-a-lifetime hunting opportunities
- World-class live entertainment
- Assigned seating for optimal auction viewing
Sunday Events
Sportsman’s Chapel
Time: 8:30 AM – 9:45 AM
Location: Room 254
Start your Sunday morning with this inspirational service for the hunting community.
Educational Seminars and Workshops
Free educational seminars run throughout the Expo, providing valuable knowledge from hunting experts, wildlife biologists, and successful outfitters.
Seminar Schedule by Day
| Day | Times | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday | 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM | Room 254 |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM | Room 254 |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM | Room 150 G |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM | Room 254 |
Typical Seminar Topics
While specific 2026 seminar speakers and topics will be announced closer to the event, past expos have featured:
Hunting Tactics and Strategies:
- Advanced elk hunting techniques
- Spot-and-stalk mule deer tactics
- High-country sheep hunting preparation
- Calling strategies for predators
- Turkey hunting masterclass
- Waterfowl hunting secrets
Gear and Technology:
- Long-range shooting fundamentals
- Optics selection and use
- Bow tuning and arrow selection
- GPS and mapping technology
- Trail camera strategies
Conservation and Biology:
- Understanding deer migration patterns
- Elk biology and behavior
- Habitat improvement projects
- The role of hunting in conservation
- Wildlife population management
Planning and Logistics:
- DIY public land hunting success
- Planning your first western hunt
- Physical conditioning for mountain hunts
- Meat care and field processing
- Understanding preference points and draw odds
Check the mobile app or daily schedule for specific seminar times and topics.
Conservation Impact
The Western Hunting and Conservation Expo exists primarily to fund wildlife conservation and habitat improvement projects throughout Utah and the Western United States.
Financial Impact Since 2007
- Over $100 million raised for wildlife conservation
- Hundreds of habitat improvement projects completed annually
- Direct funding for big game populations including elk, deer, sheep, moose, and antelope
- Support for critical winter range improvements
- Water development projects in arid habitats
- Predator management programs
- Wildlife research and population studies
Where Your Money Goes
200 Permit Application Fees:
Every $5 application fee stays in Utah for wildlife conservation projects. These funds are strictly controlled and audited annually by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.
Event Registration and Auction Proceeds:
Funds support projects managed by:
- Sportsmen for Fish and Wildlife (SFW)
- Mule Deer Foundation (MDF)
- Collaborative projects with state wildlife agencies
2026 Conservation Priorities
Based on ongoing needs, conservation funding typically supports:
- Mule deer habitat restoration
- Elk winter range improvement
- Bighorn sheep habitat enhancement
- Invasive species removal (pinyon-juniper encroachment)
- Water catchment systems in desert habitats
- Migration corridor protection
- Sagebrush restoration for sage grouse
- Wetland restoration for waterfowl
Planning Your Visit to Salt Lake City
Getting to the Salt Palace Convention Center
Address: 100 South West Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
From Salt Lake City International Airport:
- Distance: 8 miles
- Drive time: 15-20 minutes
- UTA TRAX Green Line: Direct service to Temple Square (2 blocks from venue)
- Taxi/rideshare: $20-30
Parking:
Multiple parking options near the Salt Palace:
- Salt Palace parking garage
- City Creek Center parking
- Street parking (limited availability)
- Nearby private lots
Accommodation Options
Salt Lake City offers abundant lodging within walking distance or short drive from the convention center:
Downtown Hotels (Walking Distance):
- Marriott City Creek (official volunteer hotel)
- Grand America Hotel
- Hilton Salt Lake City Center
- Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City
- Little America Hotel
- Radisson Hotel Salt Lake City Downtown
Budget-Friendly Options:
- Hampton Inn Downtown
- Comfort Inn Downtown
- Various airport-area hotels with easy TRAX access
Booking Tips:
- Reserve early—the Expo draws 40,000+ attendees over four days
- Downtown hotels eliminate parking hassles
- Airport hotels offer lower rates with TRAX access to downtown
Dining in Salt Lake City
The convention center sits in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City with dozens of restaurants within walking distance:
Quick Lunch Options:
- City Creek Center food court
- Numerous food trucks nearby
- Fast-casual restaurants on every block
Sit-Down Dining:
- Ruth’s Chris Steak House
- Spencer’s for Steaks and Chops
- The Copper Onion
- Valter’s Osteria
- Red Iguana (Utah’s famous Mexican food)
Utah Specialties to Try:
- Fry sauce (Utah’s signature condiment)
- Pastrami burgers
- Crown Burgers
- Local craft beers (if that’s your preference)
What to Bring to the Expo
Essential Items:
- Valid ID (required for 200 permit validation)
- Utah hunting license number
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Phone with the Western Hunt Expo app downloaded
- Business cards for networking
- Notepad or phone for taking notes
- Reusable water bottle
- Light jacket (convention centers can be cold)
Optional but Helpful:
- Small backpack or bag
- Phone charging cable/portable battery
- Cash for quick purchases
- Hunting-related questions written down
- List of priority exhibitors to visit
- Current gear you’re considering upgrading (for comparison)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for the 200 permits without attending the Expo?
No. While you must apply online before or during the Expo, you must validate your application in person at the Salt Palace Convention Center by 4:00 PM on Sunday, February 15, 2026. Applications not validated in person are invalid and not included in the drawing.
Are there discounts for military, seniors, or groups?
Daily exhibit hall admission offers youth discounts (ages 12-17 pay $10, children 11 and under are free). Full registration packages don’t currently offer military or senior discounts, but these packages already provide significant value compared to purchasing events individually.
Can I bring my family to the Expo?
Absolutely. The Expo is family-friendly with free admission for children 11 and under. Many families attend together, and kids enjoy the exhibits, wildlife displays, and outdoor gear. The event inspires the next generation of hunters and conservationists.
What if I draw a 200 permit but also draw the same species in Utah’s regular drawing?
You may only accept one permit. If you draw both, you choose which permit to use and return the other. Most hunters choose the Expo permit if it’s for a better unit, but the decision is yours.
Do I need full registration to attend the exhibit hall?
No. Daily admission tickets ($25 for adults) provide access to the exhibit hall only. Full registration packages include exhibit hall access plus auction events, entertainment, and organizational memberships.
Are firearms allowed in the convention center?
Follow Utah state law and Salt Palace Convention Center policies regarding firearms. Exhibitors display firearms, but attendees should check current policies before carrying personal firearms into the venue.
Can I purchase auction items if I don’t attend the banquets?
The highest-value auction items are exclusive to the ticketed auction events (Conservation Night and Grand Finale). However, the Friday Day Auction offers quality items at a lower entry price point ($25).
Is there Wi-Fi at the Salt Palace?
Yes, the Salt Palace Convention Center offers Wi-Fi access. However, with 40,000+ attendees, connectivity can be slow during peak hours. Download the Expo app and any important information before arriving.
What’s the best day to attend to avoid crowds?
Thursday typically has the smallest crowds, especially early in the day. Saturday afternoon and Sunday can also be less crowded. Friday and Saturday mornings tend to be busiest.
Can I buy gear directly from exhibitors at discounted prices?
Many exhibitors offer Expo-exclusive pricing and specials. This is one of the best opportunities to purchase gear, book hunts, and take advantage of show specials not available elsewhere.
Future Expo Dates
Mark your calendars for upcoming Western Hunting and Conservation Expos:
- 2027: February 11-14
- 2028: February 10-13
- 2029: February 8-11
- 2030: January 31 – February 3
Note: Dates subject to change. Confirm at HuntExpo.com closer to each event.
How to Stay Updated
Official Website: HuntExpo.com
Mobile App: Search “Western Hunt Expo” in Apple App Store or Google Play Store
Social Media: Follow Hunt Expo on Facebook and Instagram for updates, exhibitor announcements, and behind-the-scenes content
Email Newsletter: Sign up at HuntExpo.com for announcements about speakers, auction items, and special promotions
For questions about exhibiting, contact Katie Gourdin at katie@huntexpo.com or 385-449-7066.
For general Expo questions, email info@huntexpo.com.
Final Thoughts: Why Attend the Utah Hunting EXPO 2026
The Western Hunting and Conservation Expo represents more than just a trade show—it’s the heartbeat of Western hunting culture and conservation funding. Whether you’re applying for one of the 200 coveted Utah premium permits, shopping for your next hunting adventure with world-class outfitters, upgrading your gear from the industry’s leading manufacturers, or simply connecting with fellow outdoor enthusiasts who share your passion, this four-day event delivers unmatched value.
Your participation directly funds hundreds of wildlife conservation projects that improve habitat, increase game populations, and preserve hunting traditions for future generations. The $100+ million raised since 2007 has created tangible improvements for elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, moose, and countless other species across the West.
From the moment the exhibit hall doors open Thursday morning until the Grand Finale closes Saturday night, you’ll be surrounded by the best the hunting world offers. Expert advice flows freely from outfitters who’ve guided hundreds of successful hunts. Conservation professionals share the latest research on wildlife management. Industry innovators demonstrate cutting-edge gear that can elevate your hunting success.
The 2026 Expo falls February 12-15 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in downtown Salt Lake City. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of North America’s premier hunting and conservation gathering.
See you at the Expo!
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