First off lose the negativity !! Don't start out thinking you are not going to get anything or you won't,there's a couple of ways to go without learning on the curve about camping and elk hunting. Colorado 2nd and 3rd season are over the counter or you can buy a landowner tag for around $1000. Area #77 near Pagosa Springs can be very productive if you are not looking for a wilderness experience, stay at the Sportsman supply and hunt on your own, nice cabins and all you need is your food, or Larry Bishop ...Rocky Mountain Ranches has landowner tag's or tresspass fee hunting on private ranches in the Craig area and you can stay at a local motel.Elk hunting can be as hard or as easy as you make it, not everybody is looking for the backcountry wilderness experience just get your feet wet and see how it goe's . I first started elk hunting in 94 and have taken 8 bull's all on my own DIY, I now have the fever and have my own wall tent but I've never needed horse's . Do yourself a favor get a GPS and learn how to use it but also always carry a compass and get in the best shape that you can. The best thing you can bring with you is common sense.I'll be happy to share info with you about the Pagosa [email protected].. , Bill