Best GMC Vehicles for Hunting in Eastern Washington
Rugged Trucks & SUVs Built for Washington's Backcountry Hunting Terrain
For hunters in Eastern Washington, the right vehicle can make all the difference when heading out to rugged backcountry or hauling big game from the field. At GMC of Riverfront Park in Spokane, WA, there's a lineup of vehicles built to handle the unique demands of hunting season—from steep mountain trails to muddy forest roads. Whether it's a weekend elk hunt near the Selkirk Mountains or pheasant hunting across the Palouse, there's a GMC ready to get the job done.
Eastern Washington's diverse terrain requires vehicles that can transition seamlessly from highway driving to off-road trails, with enough power and space for all your hunting gear and companions.
Why Hunters Choose GMC
GMC vehicles are designed with toughness, capability, and practicality in mind, making them ideal for the hunting enthusiast. Looking for the best GMC for hunting? It's not just about raw power. Features like advanced 4x4 systems, impressive ground clearance, and best-in-class towing capacity all come into play when navigating off-road terrain or transporting hunting gear. Plus, with GMC's rugged interiors and versatile cargo solutions, gear, game, and companions ride in comfort and safety.
For hunters who spend long weekends off the beaten path, a vehicle that combines durability with convenience is essential. That's where models like the GMC Sierra AT4, GMC Yukon XL, and GMC Canyon really shine. Each brings something unique to the table for Eastern Washington's outdoor lifestyle.
From the high desert of the Channeled Scablands to the dense forests of the Colville National Forest, GMC vehicles provide the reliability hunters need in remote areas where breakdowns aren't an option.
GMC Sierra AT4: The Ultimate Hunting Truck
Off-Road Performance
When thinking about a hunting truck, the GMC Sierra AT4 is hard to beat. It's built for serious off-road performance, featuring advanced GMC off-road capabilities like Multimatic shocks, skid plates, and an available 4x4 drivetrain. The GMC Sierra's ground clearance is more than enough to tackle rocky trails or soft dirt roads, and the bed offers plenty of room for coolers, hunting gear, and even a full-size deer or elk after a successful hunt.
The Sierra AT4's advanced traction management system allows you to optimize performance for everything from muddy river bottoms to snowy mountain passes commonly encountered in Eastern Washington hunting areas.
Towing & Utility
Towing is another strong suit of the Sierra AT4. With its impressive GMC towing capacity, hunters can easily haul ATVs, trailers, or additional gear to remote hunting camps. The AT4 combines rugged utility with modern comforts like a spacious cabin and advanced infotainment, making it a vehicle that works as hard as hunters do.
Available features like the MultiPro Tailgate with built-in steps and bed-mounted cargo management systems make loading heavy game or equipment significantly easier after a long day in the field.
GMC Yukon XL: Space Meets Power
Maximum Cargo Space
For hunters who need more room for family, friends, and gear, the GMC Yukon XL is a standout GMC hunting SUV. Its massive cargo space can handle rifles, coolers, game bags, and more, while still providing comfortable seating for a crew after a long day in the field. The Yukon XL also features a powerful V8 engine option, GMC 4x4 systems, and excellent off-road performance.
With up to 144.7 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded, the Yukon XL can accommodate everything from hunting blinds to multiple game animals while keeping your gear protected from the elements.
Versatile Performance
Whether traversing muddy trails in the Colville National Forest or cruising through rolling farmland in the Palouse, the Yukon XL's combination of power, interior space, and towing capability makes it a versatile choice for serious hunters. Plus, its tech-friendly cabin keeps navigation and communication tools within easy reach—perfect for coordinating with fellow hunters or checking in at base camp.
The available Air Ride Adaptive Suspension automatically levels the vehicle when carrying heavy loads, ensuring optimal handling and visibility even when fully loaded with hunting equipment.
GMC Canyon: Compact Yet Capable
Maneuverability & Access
For hunters seeking a compact yet rugged option, the GMC Canyon makes a great off-road hunting vehicle. Its mid-size frame makes it easier to maneuver through narrow trails while still offering plenty of cargo space and towing capacity for trailers or small boats. With GMC's off-road capabilities, including available 4x4 and trailering packages, the Canyon is ready to tackle gravel roads, river crossings, and steep inclines with confidence.
The Canyon's smaller footprint allows access to tighter hunting spots that might be challenging for full-size trucks, perfect for Eastern Washington's network of forest service roads and narrow game trails.
Surprising Capability
Compact yet capable, the Canyon is ideal for hunters who venture into tighter, more technical terrain or prefer a truck that's easier to park and handle around hunting lodges or trailheads. Despite its smaller size, the Canyon AT4 variant offers impressive off-road credentials with features like underbody skid plates, all-terrain tires, and enhanced suspension.
With up to 7,700 pounds of towing capacity, the Canyon can handle most hunting trailers, including those carrying ATVs, making it a versatile choice for hunters who need capability without the bulk of a full-size truck.
Practical Hunting Features Across GMC's Lineup
Cargo & Storage Solutions
- Spray-in bed liners for durability
- Multiple tie-down points for securing gear
- Under-seat storage in crew cab models
- Available bed extenders and dividers
- Waterproof storage compartments
Towing & Hauling
- Integrated trailer brake controllers
- Trailer sway control systems
- Heavy-duty cooling systems
- Trailer lighting check systems
- Hitch guidance with camera views
Off-Road Capabilities
- Advanced 4WD systems with multiple modes
- Underbody skid plate protection
- Hill descent control
- All-terrain tire options
- Enhanced suspension systems
Tips for Choosing the Right Hunting GMC
Consider Your Hunting Terrain
Mountainous and forested areas require a vehicle with strong off-road performance and good ground clearance, like the Sierra AT4 or Yukon XL. For Eastern Washington's diverse landscape—from the rocky scablands to dense pine forests—select a vehicle with the appropriate suspension, tire options, and drivetrain for your specific hunting grounds.
Evaluate Cargo & Passenger Needs
Longer trips with multiple hunters or larger gear loads benefit from the Yukon XL's spacious interior. Consider how many people you typically hunt with, the amount of gear you carry, and whether you need to transport game animals. The Sierra's bed or Yukon's cargo area might better suit your needs depending on your hunting style.
Check Towing Requirements
If hauling ATVs, trailers, or boats, focus on models with high GMC towing capacity. Remember that towing capacity decreases with additional passengers and cargo, so choose a vehicle that can handle your typical loaded trailer weight with room to spare for safety.
Prioritize Comfort & Convenience
Long drives to remote hunting grounds are easier with comfortable seating, advanced infotainment, and climate control. Features like heated seats for cold morning drives, navigation systems for unfamiliar areas, and durable interior materials that can withstand muddy boots and wet gear make the hunting experience more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions: GMC Hunting Vehicles
What is the best GMC for hunting?
It depends on your needs. The GMC Sierra AT4 is ideal for off-road hunting and hauling heavy gear, while the GMC Yukon XL is fantastic for those who need space and power. The GMC Canyon is suitable for hunters seeking a smaller, more maneuverable truck. For Eastern Washington's varied terrain, the Sierra AT4 offers the best balance of capability and utility.
Can GMC trucks handle off-road hunting trails in Eastern Washington?
Absolutely. Many models feature advanced GMC off-road capabilities, including skid plates, 4x4 systems, and high GMC Sierra ground clearance to tackle rugged terrain. The Sierra AT4 and Canyon AT4 are specifically engineered for challenging off-road conditions common in Washington's backcountry.
What is the towing capacity of GMC hunting vehicles?
Depending on the model, GMC trucks and SUVs can tow anywhere from several thousand pounds in the Canyon up to heavy-duty loads in the Sierra AT4 and Yukon XL. The Sierra 1500 can tow up to 13,200 pounds when properly equipped, while the Yukon XL can manage up to 8,400 pounds. Always check the specific model's towing specs based on configuration.
Are there smaller GMC options for hunting that can still handle rough terrain?
Yes, the GMC Canyon is a mid-size pickup that's easier to navigate on tight trails but still provides plenty of utility for hunting trips. The Canyon AT4 variant specifically includes off-road enhancements like increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and underbody protection perfect for Eastern Washington's network of forest service roads.
Does GMC offer 4x4 systems specifically designed for hunting vehicles?
Yes. Many GMC trucks and SUVs come with GMC 4x4 systems designed for off-road hunting conditions, snow, mud, and uneven terrain. The professional-grade four-wheel-drive systems include multiple modes for different surfaces and electronic traction control to maintain momentum in challenging conditions.
What GMC vehicle has the most cargo space for hunting gear and game?
The GMC Yukon XL offers the most interior cargo space with up to 144.7 cubic feet behind the front seats, making it ideal for transporting large hunting equipment, multiple coolers, and game. For bed-based cargo, the Sierra with available MultiPro tailgate and bed extenders provides versatile loading options.
How does the GMC Sierra AT4's off-road capability compare to other hunting trucks?
The Sierra AT4 features specialized off-road components including Multimatic DSSV dampers, underbody skid plates, all-terrain tires, and an advanced four-wheel-drive system that competes favorably with other off-road focused trucks. Its combination of comfort, technology, and genuine off-road capability makes it stand out in the hunting truck segment.
What features make GMC vehicles good for hunting in Washington's variable weather conditions?
GMC vehicles offer available features like heated seats and steering wheels for cold mornings, advanced climate control systems, all-weather floor liners, and sophisticated traction management systems that automatically adapt to changing road conditions—from dry pavement to snow-covered mountain passes.
Can I fit an ATV in the back of a GMC truck for hunting trips?
Most full-size ATVs will fit in the bed of a GMC Sierra with the tailgate down, though larger utility ATVs may require a trailer. The Sierra's available bed length of up to 8 feet provides ample space for most recreational ATVs, while the MultiPro tailgate includes a step function for easier loading.
What is the real-world fuel economy of GMC hunting vehicles when loaded with gear?
Fuel economy varies by model and load, but expect a 10-20% decrease in fuel efficiency when carrying heavy hunting gear or towing. The Sierra with the available 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel engine offers the best combination of power and efficiency for extended hunting trips where fuel availability may be limited.
Are there any special packages or options specifically beneficial for hunters?
Yes, GMC offers several packages ideal for hunters including the Max Trailering Package, Off-Road Performance Package, All-Weather Floor Liner options, spray-in bed liners, and bed utility packages with multiple tie-downs. The available CarbonPro composite bed is exceptionally durable and resistant to dents and corrosion.
How does the GMC Canyon compare to full-size trucks for hunting purposes?
The Canyon offers similar capability in a more maneuverable package, with easier access to tight trails and better fuel economy. While it has less maximum towing and payload capacity than full-size trucks, it's more than capable for most hunting scenarios and excels in situations where larger trucks might struggle with space constraints.
What financing options are available for hunters purchasing a GMC vehicle?
GMC of Riverfront Park offers competitive financing options including special APR rates for qualified buyers, lease options, and seasonal incentives. We also understand the unique needs of hunters and can help structure financing that accommodates seasonal income patterns common in outdoor professions.
Can I test drive these GMC vehicles on terrain similar to hunting conditions?
While we can't take every vehicle on extreme off-road adventures, we can demonstrate the capabilities of our GMC trucks and SUVs on varied surfaces and discuss how specific features perform in hunting scenarios. Our product specialists have extensive knowledge of how these vehicles handle Eastern Washington's diverse terrain.
What maintenance considerations are important for vehicles used primarily for hunting?
Hunting vehicles typically require more frequent maintenance due to off-road use. We recommend regular undercarriage inspections, more frequent air filter changes when driving dusty roads, thorough cleaning after trips to prevent corrosion, and pre-season inspections to ensure reliability during hunting season.
Time For the Big Game!
Hunting in Eastern Washington demands a vehicle that's tough, capable, and practical. Whether heading into the backcountry or hauling gear and game, GMC vehicles like the Sierra AT4, Yukon XL, and Canyon make every trip more manageable and enjoyable. Stop by GMC of Riverfront Park in Spokane to see these hunting-ready trucks and SUVs up close—ready to help get hunters where they need to go, no matter the terrain.
GMC of Riverfront Park
E 636 Sprague Ave, Spokane, WA 99202
Sales: (509) 479-9893