When bucks are scent checking an area for doe, does their route change depending on the wind direction. Whats the best way to hunt steep ridges. I would think the buck would only travel along a ridge (more of a steep gully) when the wind is coming from the top of the ridge. Or will a deer walk a distant ridge scent checking a bedding area on the opposite side of the gully. What have you guys seen. I am trying to figure out what wind direction is best for this stand.

Thanks for the help

eddie

When deer cross from one valley, to the next, they usually take the easiest route. Look for saddles (low spots in the ridges) and you' ll see where deer cross from. When traveling the ridges themselves, they usually like to walk the " shelves" on the sides of the ridges. I believe that deer will stay high during the morning, and may travel lower shelves during the evening. Reason for this is the thermals rise in the am, and go downhill during the evening. This way they can use their noses as their primary detection system.