It was fun seeing my original post reappear on my timeline 3 years later. I'm now 0-for-4 on my elk trips (all in Colorado), so take my advice with that in mind, but I haven't had a "bad" hunt yet. I've had many more encounters each time than that first attempt, flung an arrow at a nice bull in 2023 that caught a sapling instead, and have been in a lot of beautiful country each time. Like I said originally, having the right mindset and being realistic on your goals are key to having a good experience.
Looking back on all this there are a few things I have learned since my first post.
First, although I have yet to use an outfitter or go with a drop camp, I think I'm going to look into the latter for my next trip. For September hunts, in most units the elk are going to be at higher elevations and in many cases this means they'll be above the road systems - which I use as a "basecamp" hunter. Having said that, I've been "into" elk almost every day of each trip except for that first one, but that's been because I've selected units that I know I wouldn't face this problem. There are a LOT of units I've avoided due to access issues, but if there's an outfitter in that area, you can probably get there with their help.
Additionally, in easy-to-draw units across Colorado with lots of public land and access, you're just bound to run into other hunters, ATV riders, and hikers. This hasn't been too disruptive to me with the exception of one hunt. I think there's a lot to be said about getting packed into a wilderness area particularly if it is with a good outfitter who has the area dialed in. My hesitancy on this in the past has been out of fear that we would get packed in, not see/hear anything, and be stuck there for 5 days. I've liked the idea of being able to pull stakes and move across the unit if I have to, and I've done this on nearly every trip. But now that I've experienced the pressure a few times, I'm starting to lean into the drop camp idea.
Second, while I don't know if I would recommend going solo on your first trip, I went alone last year and had a great time. It wasn't as intimidating as I thought it might be. Yes, it's more difficult and risky, but I never felt unsafe, and there was something so clarifying and refreshing about being totally alone out there. It was very freeing. If I got a bull down, I would have a lot of work and pain ahead of me, but I was ready for that.
Third, conditioning. It's still extremely important, but I've also mellowed out a little on this since my first trip. This is coming from the perspective of someone who does not backpack hunt and who is in relatively good shape (I was able to run a marathon in 2023 at age 39). I've kept my training more basic since 2020. I focus almost entirely on building aerobic capacity and having a strong trunk. I try to workout for an hour 5-6 days a week, with a mix of running/biking, core and leg exercises, and rucking.
And the biggest trick to all of this is in order to GET in shape you need to STAY in shape. I try to do SOMETHING resembling a workout regime year-round. Right now I try to stick to the Push-Pull-Legs weight program 3 days a week and 30-45 minutes of cardio 3-5 days/week. I begin tailoring what I do for my hunt specifically about 3 months out.
Finally, gear. I don't think my views have changed a lot on this. Base layers, boots, and packs remain paramount in my book. I am still unconvinced you need more than a $250 pair of binoculars for 90% of all elk hunting situations. Don't spend $500 on rain gear right out of the gates unless you're going to Alaska or something. Spend your money educating yourself and buying ammo/arrows and range time.
That's all for my update. I hope some of you find it helpful.
