Is an 85mm spotting scope necessary for Elk hunting?

[eaglemountainman]

Not at all. I roll with a Kowa 55 scope or often only binos. Currently 10x binos but I’ve had successful hunts with only 8x42s.

This^^^ 28oz and clear as gin.
However, in the terrain you describe, a spotter may not even be necessary, or practical.

 

[pirogue]

Big gnarly and thick timbered mountains eastern Oregon

Based on my hunts in the units of Walla Walla, Mt. Emily, and Ukiah, I would not purchase one for that purpose.