Where have you been outwest? Do you setup something with a outfitter, guided. Or got a place usually go to on your own. My 2 brothers, and I have discussed going out west someday. I personnally really like to hunt Elk with a bow, and a drop camp deal. I guess they bugle more during archery seasons. But my brothers think should do a rifle hunt the first time out, and fully guided. I know of people that have been to Colorado in the past, and just went on their own on Federal land. Both of them have told me you need a real good 4x4 w/chains to get up the mountains to the Elk, and rifle season in Colorado is worse then Southern Tier shotgun. If there's any truth to that, its not what I'd want to do. I don't think a trip outwest is anything we could do this yr. Money's been tight for all of us, but certainly be interested in any info you have to share!