Brian,
Lots of folks still hunt those areas. Lots of locals and outfitters who have hunted it for years and know their way around.
Get some maps and call the Forest Service. Find areas with trails and old logging roads for access. In less traveled and popular areas you can call off the access roads. No doubt you will be able to find an area to hunt and have a great time. We are just trying to let you know that it will be really tough if you just show up there wanting to hunt and haven't done your homework.
My brother in law hunts unit 7 every year and they shoot a lot of elk in there. It is not an easy place to hunt if you are serious about getting an elk.
A scouting trip to familiarize yourself once you nail down an area from your research is highly recommended.
Just be prepared for the thick timber brush and steep terrain, if you do your homework and are prepared there is no reason to think you won't have a great time and have opportunities to get an elk.
Good luck with your hunt!