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Starr. I've seen a lot of answers here, some reasonable and some, well, to be polite, not so reasonable IMHO.
One, you did not say what part of Washington state you will be huning. In the Eastern part, or Western.
I've hunted western Washingtom and the brush there is quite thick, which would require a different type of rifle that what you would use in the eatern part of the state. I used a 30-06 over the clear cuts and a 45-70 lever action in the thick stuff.
Without knowing what your shooting experience is, I hesitate to follow the lead of some of the others in recommending a magnum of any type. You'd most likely develope a flinch in a hurry which would not be in the best interests of you or the elk. I think something in the .308 Winchester class would probably be your best bet, reasonably powerful, accurate and with a 180 gr. bullet more than adequate out to 200 yards provided you place the shot correctly. Federal make a High Energy load in the .308 with 180 gr. bullet that is equal to a standard 30-06 in power, and the 30-06 has done in a lot of elk over the years. Hornady also makes a Light magnum load for the .308 wiht their Interlock bullet. Even Remington's standard loads with their core lock bullet has a good reputation.
If you can handle it, the 30-06 would be even better.
As to whether the 30-30 is powerful enough for elk? Well, if you can get close enough to put the bullet in the heart/lung area, and are good enough to track the animal till it drops, then you can use it. I think I could do it, but personally I'd opt for something with a lot more punch.
I find it sickening to come across a blood trail, follow it and find a beautiful animal like an elk that someone either could not, or didn't bother to track down.
The important thing is shoot the most potent rifle you are comfortable with that is suitable for your area.
Paul B.
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