I'am going in September for my first archery elk hunt. I have shot 6 elk all with guns over the years. I have guided elk hunters in colorado,New Mexico and Montana. There is no slam dunk on elk. You can have a great time doing it either way. If you are looking at a DIY hunt I can do it for 1200.00 in colorado non res.If you hire a guide to drop you in a camp add another 1200.00 for him. A fully guided hunt Total cost would be about 4000.00 That is with everything transportation, tags and guide fees.
Study elk vids, practice calling, and get into shape a lot of hiking.I went to the local zoo and practiced calling (I got kicked out) but I got the Bull pretty mad.

You have plenty of time to make this happen for next year. If you Archery hunt most of the state of CO is over the counter. If you rifle hunt The first season is a draw hunt and the 3 other elk seasons are over the counter bull tags for most of the state. CO is the easiest state to get a tag. If you are serious e-mail I can get you in the right direction.