If you're just booking a first rifle hunt, it sounds like you got lucky or the guide doesn't have much business. I booked a 2nd rifle hunt for 2025 back in July. I had originally booked for 2026 but I got a call back saying that a group backed out.
Look up historical weather data on your location and go from there. In my boat for 2nd rifle, it seems I could be in anything from 50 degree weather to it snowing feet. Planning for both and will pack based on the weather forecast a week before. I can always cool off but it sure sucks getting cold. Been gathering gear for about 6mo now and I'm almost done except for a 2nd pair of boots in the snow and a few little odds and ends.
Good luck.
hope the elk population is okay.