[petey]

I know the area well. In fact have hunted it quite a bit and you're right. Get in deep as you can, even spike camp if you can.

I know of a couple hot spots that are BLM land locked by private land and are access by way of only foot or horse back through an easement. The closest spot is a 5-7 mile hike as the crow flies(depending on what side of the mountain you want to hike). It'll take you a few hrs to hike it, but it's worth the walk. You cross three sets of fence's if I recall and it's pretty much a horse path in. Step off the path and you're tresspassing on private land. IF you down an elk you can rent horses to pack it out from someone local, or plan on 2 days to pack out on your back. If you're not seeing much, by the first couple days, I'd suggest you try this spot. It's right on the WY border just South of Baggs, WY. You won't see ANYone in there..unless they have a horse. If you have topos, look for Long Mt., Just SE of Baggs.

I've also hunted Mt.Oliphant, Between Craig and Baggs in the RNF and several other mountains, but most are easy access by vehicle. These you'll probably see plenty of hunters, close to roads of course. Wish you posted earlier. I have plenty of hot spots I could share of that whole area and have digital topos I would have shared. Good luck in your hunt! I would expect you to hear bulls bugling. I killed a nice 6x5 in 2004 in the 1st season down in Siverthorne, CO. Herd bull with 20 cows and called him into bow range. Nice when you have a gun in your hand, but I wish I had my bow at that moment! Hopefully you'll read this before you leave so you have another spot to try if you run into a lot of hunters