I'm sure you know already but I'm going to say it anyway. Get into GOOD shape and be prepared for any weather from sunny to blizzard. Look at Pike national forest as a start for good chances at seeing elk. I would call some of the outfitters and see if they could give you any info. If they are decent people then they should be able to point you in the right direction. If you are wanting to hunt somewhat close to the road then I would think about going in the later seasons. The elk will be more concentrated down low the more snow we have up high.