Montana Army National Guardsmen face trespassing charges after reportedly landing a helicopter on a private ranch to take elk antlers before flying away.

Hunting for elk antlers is a popular pastime in Montana, and freshly shed brown antlers can sell for hundreds of dollars. But hunters need permission to take them from private property.

Three Montana Army National Guard members face trespassing charges after authorities say they landed a Black Hawk helicopter in a mountain pasture on a private ranch to take elk antlers.

Then we headed out to the Elk Ridge parking area on the north end of the ranch. The hike from the parking area is easygoing along a level, gated road. Great rounded hills rise to the right.

Three Montana Army National Guard members face trespassing charges after authorities say they landed a Black Hawk helicopter in a mountain pasture on a private ranch to take elk antlers.

Military Helicopter Crew Took Elk Antlers From Montana Ranch, Officials Say Three members of the Montana National Guard have been charged with trespassing in connection with the incident on May 4.

Three Montana Army National Guard members face trespassing charges after authorities say they landed a Black Hawk helicopter in a mountain pasture on a private ranch to take elk antlers.

Three Montana Army National Guard members face trespassing charges after authorities say they landed a Black Hawk helicopter in a mountain pasture on a private ranch to take elk antlers.

Three Montana Army National Guard members face trespassing charges after authorities say they landed a Black Hawk helicopter in a mountain pasture on a private ranch to take elk antlers.