IF haven't been archery elk hunting you have to give it a shot its a blast, Theres nothing like a big bull screamin in your face at 20 yards, Im from Idaho and theres some great elk huntin up here but elk hunting period is one of the toughest animals to get with a bow. I personally know idaho pretty well so i don't bother with guides, if you just do a lil work pre season scouting and get familiar with the territory you should be fine.