Western Hunting &amp; Conservation Expo WHCE

Mule Deer Foundation Miles Moretti Conservation Champion Award

Annual

Recognizes a seasoned wildlife leader for hands-on conservation and commitment to mule deer and habitat management across the West. The 2026 award was given to Brian Wakeling, Game Management Chief from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, for his science-driven wildlife policy and management work

Conservation Leadership

Mule Deer Foundation Distinguished Private Land Stewardship Award

Annual

Honors a private landowner who has made extraordinary investments in habitat restoration for mule deer. The 2026 award was given to Utah Speaker of the House Mike Schultz for converting low-producing farm ground back to native habitat and doubling mule deer on his property

Private Land Stewardship

SFW Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Award

Annual

Presented by Sportsmen for Fish and Wildlife to key conservationist volunteers. Prior recipients include Steve Sorenson (Conservationist of the Year) and Paul Niemeyer (Lifetime Volunteer Award)

Volunteer Conservation

Government supporters

Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

Permit-issuing partner and conservation collaborator

How the last edition performed

Previous edition

Current edition

2027

Current-edition (2027) exhibitor and visitor counts are not yet published

Forecast — not final

Exhibitors

600

Growth over time

New this edition

1
"The Vanishing Icon of the West" campaign launch
Mule Deer Foundation introduced a bold new national campaign at the 2026 Expo, focusing on restoring mule deer numbers across the West
Source

Next edition outlook

2027-02-11 – 2027-02-14

high

The 2027 Western Hunting & Conservation Expo is scheduled for February 11–14 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City. Building on the record-breaking momentum of the 2026 edition—which saw nearly 600 exhibitors, record attendance, and over $10 million raised for conservation—the 2027 show is expected to be another landmark event. The launch of the 'Vanishing Icon of the West' campaign at the 2026 Expo is likely to generate increased interest and participation from conservation-minded attendees and exhibitors. The Expo's proven ability to attract tens of thousands of applicants for Utah's Top 200 permits and raise millions for conservation suggests continued strong demand for both exhibition space and attendance

Continued focus on the 'Vanishing Icon of the West' campaign and mule deer conservation initiatives Potential expansion of exhibit space or programming to accommodate growing exhibitor and attendee demand Increased integration of technology and digital tools in the show experience

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

The 2026 Western Hunting & Conservation Expo marked the 20th anniversary of the event and delivered another record-breaking year. With nearly 600 exhibitors filling the entire Salt Palace Convention Center, the show set new records for attendance and admissions revenue. The Expo generated over $8 million in auction proceeds and an additional $2.6 million from Utah's limited-entry big game permit applications, all of which directly fund wildlife conservation projects across the West. The event also served as the launchpad for the Mule Deer Foundation's new national campaign, 'The Vanishing Icon of the West,' aimed at reversing the decline of mule deer populations

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

The 2026 Expo attracted a highly engaged and passionate audience of hunters, conservationists, and outdoor enthusiasts. Record attendance numbers and full-capacity exhibit halls demonstrate the event's strong and growing appeal. Attendees come from across the United States and beyond, seeking the latest gear, exclusive hunting opportunities, and a shared commitment to conservation. The audience is affluent, knowledgeable, and deeply invested in the hunting and outdoor lifestyle, making it a prime target for exhibitors and sponsors

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

Exhibitors at the 2026 Expo benefited from direct access to tens of thousands of dedicated hunters and consumers who are actively seeking products and services. With nearly 600 exhibitors and a waiting list of over 1,000 companies, demand for space underscores the show's value. The record-breaking attendance and revenue indicate a highly motivated buyer base. Exhibitors can expect strong lead generation, brand exposure, and sales opportunities, particularly given the event's reputation as the premier conservation-focused hunting trade show in the Western United States

Intelligence

Market context

Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

North America (United States, with international exhibitors and attendees from Canada, Asia, Europe, and beyond)

Why it matters

The Western Hunting & Conservation Expo is the premier intersection of commerce and conservation in the hunting industry. It is not merely a trade show but a critical fundraising engine that has channeled over $100 million into wildlife and habitat projects since 2007. For buyers, it offers access to the widest array of hunting gear, outfitters, and exclusive hunting tags. For exhibitors, it provides direct access to a highly engaged, affluent consumer base that is deeply committed to the outdoors. The event's consistent record-breaking attendance and fundraising underscore its central role in the hunting and conservation ecosystem, making it an indispensable event for industry stakeholders. Its ability to unite the hunting community around a shared conservation mission while driving significant economic activity sets it apart in the trade show landscape

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

Technology Integration and Smart Hunting Gear

The hunting industry is seeing a rapid integration of technology, with products such as optics integrating thermal imaging and ballistic calculators, and wearable devices that transmit real-time environmental data. The proportion of exhibitors featuring 'smart hunting' products has grown by approximately 25% in recent years, driving a shift from pure hunting tools to multi-functional outdoor ecosystems

Sustainable Materials and Eco-Friendly Products

Sustainability is becoming a key differentiator in the outdoor sector. There is a significant increase in the penetration of sustainable materials in outdoor equipment, reflecting a broader industry shift towards environmentally responsible manufacturing and a 'multi-functional outdoor ecosystem' that appeals to conservation-minded consumers

Growth of the Wildlife Hunting Tourism Market

The Wildlife Hunting Tourism market is experiencing explosive growth, estimated at USD 812.9 million in 2026 and projected to reach USD 3.25 billion by 2033, a compound annual growth rate of 21.9%. This surge is driven by increasing demand for experiential travel and hunting experiences, which events like WHCE directly cater to by connecting hunters with global outfitters

Younger Demographics Entering the Sport

According to ATA statistics, the number of newly registered hunters under the age of 25 grew by 23% between 2020 and 2025. This influx of younger participants is reshaping product design logic and marketing strategies, with a focus on digital engagement, modern aesthetics, and entry-level pricing

Shift to Omnichannel and Experience-Driven Commerce

The angling and hunting equipment industry is moving away from traditional seasonal merchandising toward omnichannel, data-led, experience-driven commerce. This evolution is supported by strong participation rates, replacement cycles, and the conservation-linked ecosystems that underpin the market

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

2026 WHCE Breaks Records and Launches 'Vanishing Icon' Campaign

The 20th anniversary WHCE saw record attendance, nearly 600 exhibitors filling the entire Salt Palace, over $8 million in auction proceeds, and $2.6 million from Utah's limited-entry permit applications. The Mule Deer Foundation launched a bold new national campaign, 'The Vanishing Icon of the West,' to address the decline of mule deer populations

2025 Expo Raises Record $15.4 Million for Wildlife

The 2025 WHCE drew nearly 20,000 attendees and 590 vendors, raising a record-breaking $15.4 million for conservation. Special tag auctions included a Utah Statewide Mule Deer tag selling for $370,000 and a Nevada Statewide Mule Deer tag reaching $300,000

2023 Expo Shatters Records with $14 Million Raised

The 2023 Expo closed with packed halls across 544 booths and more than 511,000 square feet of exhibit space. The event raised nearly $14 million, with record-breaking tag sales including a $725,000 Arizona Statewide Mule Deer Tag

Houston Safari Club Opens Registration for 2027 Worldwide Hunting Expo

The Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) announced that tickets and hotel bookings are open for the 2027 HSCF Worldwide Hunting Expo & Convention, taking place January 15–17, 2027, in The Woodlands, Texas. The event will feature hundreds of exhibitors, auctions, and educational programs

Major North American Hunting & Conservation Trade Shows (2026–2028)

January – February annually

The WHCE is part of a robust circuit of winter and early-spring hunting and conservation expos that draw exhibitors and attendees from across the globe. These events serve as key platforms for product launches, networking, and conservation fundraising, with a concentrated season from January through February

11–14 Feb 2027

Dallas Safari Club Convention

Atlanta, USA

Moved from Dallas to Atlanta for 2027

11–14 Feb 2027

Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) Worldwide Hunting Expo & Convention

The Woodlands, USA

Theme: Hunt. Protect. Preserve

11–14 Feb 2027

SHOT Show

Las Vegas, USA

Not open to the general public

11–14 Feb 2027

Safari Club International (SCI) Convention

Nashville, USA

One of the largest and most international shows in the circuit

11–14 Feb 2027

WSF 50th Sheep Show®

Reno, USA

Celebrates 50 years in 2027

11–14 Feb 2027

Western Hunting & Conservation Expo (WHCE)

Salt Lake City, USA

Co-hosted by MDF and SFW; features Utah's Top 200 permit drawing

11–14 Feb 2027

Ducks Unlimited Expo

Memphis, USA

Presented by Purina Pro Plan

January Peak

Dallas Safari Club ConventionHouston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) Worldwide Hunting Expo & ConventionSHOT ShowSafari Club International (SCI) Convention

A dense cluster of major industry and consumer shows, offering maximum networking and buying opportunities

February Focus

WSF 50th Sheep Show®Western Hunting & Conservation Expo (WHCE)

Western-focused events with a strong emphasis on conservation and big-game species

Summer Gathering

Ducks Unlimited Expo

A key mid-year event for waterfowl hunters and wetland conservation advocates

Dates are based on organiser announcements and industry calendars; always verify directly with event organisers before planning travel

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · USD

Arrival airports

Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

SLC

Salt Lake City International Airport

The primary airport serving the region. The TRAX Green Line light rail provides a direct 20-minute connection from the airport to downtown, with stops (Arena Station and Temple Square Station) just a half-block from the convention center. Taxi/rideshare fare is approximately $20–$25

7 miles

to venue

15–20 minutes

by car

Hotel tiers

A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

Budget

Downtown (within 1 km of venue)

USD 100–180 / night

Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites, Hampton Inn Salt Lake City-Downtown. Basic amenities, free breakfast often included, good value for cost-conscious attendees. Prices are estimates

Mid-range

Downtown (adjacent to venue)

USD 150–250 / night

Holiday Inn Express Salt Lake City Downtown, Radisson Hotel Salt Lake City Downtown-, AC Hotel Salt Lake City Downtown-. Convenient locations, comfortable rooms, reliable amenities. Prices are estimates

Premium

Adjacent to venue

USD 200–400 / night

Hilton Salt Lake City Center, Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City, Salt Lake Marriott Downtown at City Creek. Full-service hotels with upscale amenities, on-site dining, and premium conference facilities. Prices are estimates

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

TRAX Green Line Light Rail

Estimated cost$2.50 one way

Best forSalt Lake City International Airport (SLC) to downtown (Arena Station / Temple Square Station)

Direct 20-minute ride from the airport to two stops one-half block from the Salt Palace Convention Center. Service runs daily from 5:21 a.m. to 11:21 p.m. Tickets available at platform kiosks (cash/credit) or via UTA GoRide app

UTA Bus (Route 834)

Estimated cost$2.50 one way

Best forSalt Lake City International Airport to downtown

Slower alternative to TRAX; travel time 35–50 minutes with multiple stops. Not recommended for time-sensitive convention travel

Taxi

Estimated cost$27–$35 flat rate to downtown hotels

Best forSalt Lake City International Airport to downtown hotels / convention center

Yellow Cab of Utah operates airport-zone service with a $25 minimum and posted flat rates-. Available at the airport taxi stand

Rideshare (Uber / Lyft)

Estimated cost$15–$26

Best forSalt Lake City International Airport to downtown

Widely available; fares vary by demand and time of day-. Pickup areas are designated at the airport

FrontRunner Commuter Rail

Estimated cost$2.50–$9.70 one way (distance-based)

Best forOutlying cities (Ogden to Provo) to Salt Lake City

Connects Ogden, Davis County, and Utah County to Salt Lake Central Station or North Temple Station. Transfer to TRAX for direct access to the convention center. No Sunday service

Free Fare Zone (TRAX & UTA Bus)

Estimated cost$0

Best forDowntown Salt Lake City core

Ride free when boarding and exiting within the downtown Free Fare Zone boundaries. Covers most downtown hotels and the convention district

GREENbike Bike Share

Estimated costPay-per-use

Best forDowntown Salt Lake City

Docking stations throughout downtown, including near the convention center. Convenient for short trips between hotels, restaurants, and the venue

Plan your trip

Visa & entry documents

Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

Visa required

ATA Carnet: accepted

Type	Who needs it	Fee	Processing
B-1 Visitor Visa (Business)	Citizens of countries not participating in the Visa Waiver Program who wish to enter the U.S. for temporary business purposes, such as attending a business convention or conference (including WHCE)	$185.00	Varies by embassy/consulate; check the specific U.S. embassy or consulate website for current wait times. Premium processing may be available for an additional fee
ESTA (Visa Waiver Program)	Citizens of VWP countries traveling to the U.S. for business or tourism for 90 days or less. This includes attendees and exhibitors from VWP countries	$21.00	Usually instant or within 72 hours. Approval is valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first

Citizens of the 42 Visa Waiver Program countries, including Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom, do not need a visa for business stays of 90 days or less. They must obtain an approved ESTA prior to travel

The United States accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary importation of commercial samples, professional equipment, and certain advertising materials. The ATA Carnet allows for duty-free and tax-free temporary importation for up to one year. For trade show exhibitors, the ATA Carnet can simplify customs clearance for goods being temporarily imported for display or demonstration. However, goods intended to be consumed or given away at the show are not eligible. The U.S. guaranteeing association is the United States Council for International Business (USCIB), which has appointed service providers (Roanoke Trade and boomerang carnets) to issue carnets

Official visa page

Weather

February in Salt Lake City is cold with possible snow. Average high temperatures range from 38–44°F (3–7°C), while average lows range from 23–26°F (-5 to -3°C)-. Precipitation averages around 1.9 inches (48 mm)-. Dress in warm layers, and bring waterproof footwear and a heavy coat. The venue is climate-controlled, but outdoor walking is required between transport and the convention center

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

Salt Lake City is well-connected. The TRAX Green Line light rail directly connects Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) to downtown, with stops one-half block from the venue. The FrontRunner commuter rail connects outlying cities (Ogden to Provo) to downtown. A Free Fare Zone operates in downtown for TRAX and UTA buses. GREENbike bike-share stations are located throughout downtown. Multiple bus routes serve the convention center area

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

Conservation Ethos & Hunting Heritage

The Expo is deeply rooted in the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. Attendees and exhibitors share a strong belief that hunting is a primary driver of conservation funding. The event is a celebration of this heritage and a platform for reinforcing the link between hunting and wildlife stewardship

Community and Camaraderie

WHCE is a social hub for the hunting community. It's common to see families, multi-generational groups, and friends gathering to share stories, network, and participate in the many auctions and events. The atmosphere is one of shared passion for the outdoors and a collective commitment to preserving hunting traditions

Western Heritage

Held in Salt Lake City, the event embodies the spirit of the American West. The culture is rugged, independent, and deeply connected to the land. This is reflected in the products on display, the types of hunting experiences offered, and the conservation challenges discussed, particularly regarding mule deer and other Western big-game species

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

Flights

Destination: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)

Book flights well in advance, especially if traveling during peak ski season (February). SLC is a hub for Delta Air Lines and offers numerous direct flights from major US cities. International travelers should check visa requirements and allow ample time for customs upon arrival

Visa

A foreign national traveling to the United States to attend the Western Hunting & Conservation Expo (WHCE) for temporary business purposes must have a visitor visa (B-1) unless they qualify for entry under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Citizens of VWP countries can travel without a visa for business stays of 90 days or less, but must obtain an approved ESTA authorization prior to travel. All other nationals must apply for a B-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country

Estimated cost: Not yet confirmed

Processing: Varies; check with the local U.S. embassy or consulate for current processing times

For VWP travelers, the ESTA application fee is $21 USD and is typically processed instantly or within 72 hours. The ESTA is valid for two years. For B-1 visa applicants, the application fee is $185 USD-, and processing times vary significantly by country and time of year. It is strongly recommended to apply well in advance of travel. The event organizer may provide a visa invitation letter upon request, which can support the visa application

Official

Hotels

Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

Areas to stay

Downtown Salt Lake City (within walking distance of the Salt Palace Convention Center) · Near TRAX light rail stations for easy access to the venue

Budget

$100 – $180 USD per night

Mid-range

$150 – $250 USD per night

Premium

$200 – $400+ USD per night

Transport

Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

Airport → venue: TRAX Green Line light rail: 20-minute ride from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) to Arena Station or Temple Square Station, both one-half block from the convention center. Fare: $2.50 one way. Taxi/rideshare: ~$20–$25, 15–20 minutes

Hotel → venue: Most downtown hotels are within walking distance of the Salt Palace Convention Center. The TRAX light rail and UTA buses operate a Free Fare Zone in the downtown core, making short trips free

Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft are widely available in Salt Lake City. Estimated fare from downtown hotels to the venue is $5–$10

Public transit: UTA TRAX light rail (Lines 701, 704) and multiple bus routes (1, 200, 205, 209, 470) serve the convention center area. The Free Fare Zone covers most of downtown. FrontRunner commuter rail connects outlying cities (Ogden to Provo)

Parking: Salt Palace Convention Center offers two underground garages with over 1,000 spaces. Daily rates: $12–$20 per entry. Garages open at 6:30 AM; no overnight parking

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: February

Temperature: High: 38–44°F (3–7°C), Low: 23–26°F (-5 to -3°C)

Seasonality: Average precipitation of about 1.9 inches (48 mm). Snow is possible

Packing: Pack warm, layered clothing, a heavy coat, waterproof boots, gloves, and a hat. The convention center is climate-controlled, so you may want to remove layers indoors

Itinerary builder

Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

Add side trips

Default day plan

8:00 AMBreakfast at hotel or nearby café
9:00 AMArrive at Salt Palace; pick up badge and floor plan
10:00 AMExhibit hall walkthrough – focus on key vendors
12:30 PMLunch at on-site concessions or nearby restaurant
2:00 PMAttend a seminar or auction
4:00 PMNetworking with exhibitors and attendees
6:00 PMDinner and evening event (if applicable)

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: Thursday

Opening day is typically less crowded than the weekend, allowing for easier navigation of the exhibit halls and more direct access to exhibitors. It also provides the full four-day experience without missing any sessions or events

T-90

Register for event and purchase tickets — Adult tickets $25/day; youth (12-17) $10/day; children 11 and under free. Register online at huntexpo.com

T-60

Book flights and accommodation — February is peak ski season in Utah; book early for best rates. Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is the primary gateway

T-30

Review exhibitor list and floor plan — Plan your visit by identifying must-see booths, seminars, and auctions. Check the event app or website for updates

T-14

Check weather forecast and pack accordingly — February in Salt Lake City: average high 38-44°F, lows 23-26°F. Pack warm layers, waterproof boots, and comfortable walking shoes

T-7

Confirm travel arrangements — Verify flights, hotel reservations, and transportation from airport to venue (TRAX Green Line $2.50, taxi/rideshare $20-25)

T-1

Prepare identification and tickets — Bring valid photo ID for badge pickup. Media credentials available in Room 150 with photo ID

T-0

Arrive early to avoid crowds — Exhibit halls open at 10:00 AM daily. Thursday is typically the least crowded day

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day

8:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Downtown

9:00 AM

Arrive at Salt Palace; pick up badge and floor plan

East Entrance

10:00 AM

Exhibit hall walkthrough – focus on key vendors

Halls A–E and 1–5

12:30 PM

Lunch at on-site concessions or nearby restaurant

Main level or City Creek Center

2:00 PM

Attend a seminar or auction

Meeting rooms (check schedule)

4:00 PM

Networking with exhibitors and attendees

Exhibit halls

6:00 PM

Dinner and evening event (if applicable)

Downtown restaurant or venue

Side trips

Temple Square

Historic / Religious

Iconic headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; beautiful gardens and historic buildings

0.3 miles / 5-min walk

City Creek Center

Shopping / Dining

Open-air mall with upscale shops, restaurants, and a creek running through it

0.2 miles / 4-min walk

Delta Center

Sports / Entertainment

Home of the Utah Jazz; hosts concerts and events

0.4 miles / 8-min walk

Utah Museum of Contemporary Art (UMOCA)

Art

Rotating contemporary art exhibits; suggested donation

Adjacent to venue

Clark Planetarium

Science / Education

Interactive space and science exhibits; IMAX theater

0.5 miles / 10-min walk

Utah State Capitol

Government / History

Beautiful neoclassical building with free tours and panoramic city views

1 mile / 20-min walk

Abravanel Hall

Performing Arts

Home of the Utah Symphony; check for evening performances during Expo dates

0.6 miles / 12-min walk

The Leonardo Museum

Science / Art

Interactive museum blending science, technology, and art; family-friendly

0.2 miles / 4-min walk

Networking spots

Exhibit Halls

Trade Show Floor

The main floor is where exhibitors and attendees interact. Ideal for meeting guides, outfitters, and brand representatives

Super Banquet

Banquet

The largest banquet in the state, kicking off the Expo. Ticketed event with entertainment and fundraising auctions

Conservation Night Banquet

Banquet

A ticketed event where awards are presented and networking occurs among conservation leaders

MDF Volunteer Recognition Event

Breakfast

Held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel; a gathering for volunteers and supporters

Saturday Night Auction

Auction

Live auction event attracting serious bidders and conservationists; prime networking opportunity

Budget

Costs & budget

Current-edition (2027) booth pricing is not publicly available. Historical data (2012) shows 10'x10' booth at $1,250 for one booth, $2,200 for two booths, and $1,000 per additional booth. Exhibitor space is managed through a waiting list