First, let me say that this is my first post to any forum on Hunting.net, so forgive me for any uh-oh's that I might commit. I have learned that each message board that you go to has a personality and a core group of long time posters all its on. You often learn about many "unwritten" rules taht different boards have.

Here's the deal. I have long wanted to escape North Alabama for some well earned time in one of the Rocky Mtn. states chasing some of North Americas finest game. My father in-law has been to Colorado three or four times on hunting trips on public land and has taken some decent bulls and even a nice muley. Seeing those mounts on his wall have kept a fire burning in me for several years now.

My hunting partner (my soon to be 12 yr old daughter) and I have both talked about going after elk, muleys, or sheep (though this one would be rather difficult for her), but I only have a general idea of where to start.

1. Where would be a good place to start for the two of us? We hope that this isn't our only trip out West, but if it is we want it to be a quality hunt. Physically, we are both in great shape and I would like to go after she turns 13 (Jan. '09) or when she is able to handle a larger bore rifle. In other words, terrain is not an issue.

2. Where is the best place to find a good outfitter? You can only tell so much about outfitters on the internet. Is there a site other than this one that will rate or otherwise refer good outfitters? I have seen both sides of the outfitter matrix, good and bad. I don't want to spend a ton and get burned.

3. Is an outfitter even neccessary? I know that good planning and outdoorsmanship can make for a good experience. My only concern is not knowing where the animals tend to hang out.

4. What can I expect the $$$ extremes to be? I know that self-guided hunts can be cheaper and upper level lodges more expense. I hope for this trip to become an annual thing and want my other daughter and my wife (neither hunt) to be in a position to come with us. I would have to cater to them as well and would not be against renting a cabin or such for the hunt.

5. When is the best time to hunt? I have done some archery hunting in the past, but have not hunted with a bow in several years. We would consider getting into archery hunting if it means better hunting, conditions, etc.

I'm sure that I'll think of more later, but that'll do for now. Thanks for any info you guys can give me.

Oh, and War Eagle (being from Bama doesn't exactly make me one of those Tiders!)