I am thinking about a hunt in 2006..

[M.T. Pockets]

Brithunter,

You've been reading about pack-in horseback hunts and before you book anything you should really consider one. Riding a horse isn't all that bad, you don't have to be able to rodeo to get along just fine. They're not for everybody but in my mind they add a lot to the experience, don't rule out a classic, pack-in wilderness horseback hunt miles from the nearest civilization. It's like going back in time and is quite the experience. The wall tents, campfires, comradarie in camp and overall experience of being in the wilderness together with other hunters and a fine outfitter can be the experience of a lifetime. Especially if you can do it during the rut in September.

With or without horses I'd suggest getting in the best shape you can. Altitude is very humbling and elk won't wait if you can't keep up to them.

You've got a bunch of elk rifles already, I'd lean towards one of your .30 cal's and some premium bullets like Fail Safes, Barnes X....or the like. Practice from all different positions out to 300 yards and you'll do fine.

I hope it all works out for you.