WY Unit 41 Late Cow — Taking my 74yo Dad on his first Elk Hunt

[DCWrinkler]

I'm heading out this fall for a WY Unit 41 late-season cow hunt (Nov 4 - Dec 21) with my dad. He’s 74, has been my primary hunting partner for years, but he’s never been elk hunting or punched an elk tag. I really want to help him get his first elk and ensure he has a great, safe experience.

I’ve been doing my homework, so I’m not here asking for anyone's secret GPS pins or honey holes. Here’s how I’m breaking down the unit so far:

• Wilderness Boundaries: As non-residents, I know we have to stay out of the federally designated wilderness areas, so we are focusing entirely on the BLM, HMA, walk-in, and accessible National Forest ground outside those boundaries.
• Weather & Migration: Given the late dates, I’m hoping the snow flies and pushes the elk down out of the high country and rugged canyons into the lower foothills and wintering areas where the terrain is a bit more forgiving.
• Access Roads: It looks like Alkali Road and Battle Creek Road are the main arteries on the public land side.

My main focus is keeping this hunt realistic for a 74 year old. I have absolutely no problem doing all the heavy lifting and meat packing. But I need to keep our daily hiking and elevation gain manageable, and I want to avoid dropping him into any nasty, steep canyons that we can't easily climb out of.

I’d appreciate any general advice you guys might have on a few things:

1. Late-Season Road Conditions: If we get decent snow, do those main access roads turn into an impassable, greasy mess, or are they manageable with a good set of tire chains?
2. Elk Behavior & Pressure: Do the cows typically dive straight onto the private ranch lands once the late-season pressure hits, or is there enough public ground in the foothills to consistently glass them?
3. Hunting with Seniors: For those of you who have taken older guys out in the late season, any tips on pacing or strategies to keep them in the game when the temps drop and the wind howls?

We're used to the cold, but I want to play it smart with the terrain. Thanks in advance for any insights. Happy to return the favor if there is anything I can help with as well.

 

[cole96]

Following along. Will be taking my will be at time of hunt 70 yo good friend on his first and most likely last and only elk hunt in two years Similar location

Sorry I had no help to offer

 

[Laramie]

Pay for private access. Too many variables, in my opinion, to risk taking a rookie in his mid 70s during that time of year.