North American Alpine H.A.R.T Challenge

The North American Alpine H.A.R.T Challenge is a high-altitude expedition through some of the most challenging and scenic terrain in the western hemisphere. With thin air, steep ridgelines, and wary animals built for elevation, this challenge is where grit meets grace.

To complete it, you must verify a H.A.R.T shot on eight alpine species found across the mountain ranges of North America. From desert bighorns to Dall sheep and the elusive New Mexico ibex, each encounter will test your endurance, preparation, and fieldcraft.

This is a challenge for H.A.R.Ters who are ready to climb higher, hike farther, and slow down long enough to experience the thin spaces where wildness still reigns.

What You’ll Need to Complete This Challenge

To complete the North American Alpine Challenge, you must verify a H.A.R.T shot on each of the following species.

Qualification Criteria

Animal Type (8 species):

Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, Desert Bighorn Sheep, California Bighorn Sheep, Dall Sheep, Stone Sheep, Fanin Sheep, Mountain Goat, Ibex (New Mexico), Only male animals qualify

Location:

Any region in North America where the species are found in free-range conditions
High-fence preserves or ranches do not qualify

H.A.R.T Shot Verification:

Must be completed using the H.A.R.T Shot App
Each shot can only be applied to one challenge
The challenge is selected after verification

Weapons Divisions

Due to conservation and land access regulations, this challenge is limited to:

H.A.R.T Stick Division:
Camera-based shots designed to capture the moment without harm, in the spirit of the Native American Coup Stick tradition

Long-range H.A.R.T Stick systems:
(e.g., zoom lenses, remote triggers) are encouraged for safety and low disturbance

Where to H.A.R.T

Land Access & Ethical Guidelines

You may H.A.R.T on:

Public land in the form of national forests, wilderness areas, or high-altitude wildlife reserves with H.A.R.T Stick only
Private land with permission; only if the population is naturally free-range (not enclosed)

You must:

Obey all mountain-specific wildlife laws and permit requirements
Keep a safe and respectful distance (minimum 30–50 yards)
Practice ethical photography and shot timing to minimize stress on animals in fragile terrain

Tips for Completing the Challenge

1

Acclimate

Give your body time to adjust to high elevation before you climb

2

Use Optics

You’ll spot these animals long before you get near them

3

Pack for Weather

Conditions shift fast above the tree line

4

Go Light, Stay Safe

Every ounce counts on a 3,000-foot vertical ascent

Recognition and Record-Keeping

Each verified H.A.R.T shot earns you a commemorative Patch and a place in the H.A.R.T the Hunt Record Book. Also, you will be invited to purchase and collect all the Skullies for a one-of-a-kind trophy collection.

The first person to complete this challenge will help design and name the official North American Alpine trophy. All future completers may purchase a replica engraved with their name and date of completion. You may purchase a commemorative Skullie display board to show off the Skullies you collected during the challenge.

Why Take On the North American Alpine Challenge?

Because you’re not afraid of the climb. Because you want your H.A.R.T journey to include some of the most difficult, rewarding wildlife encounters possible.

By completing this challenge, you’ll: