I'm surprized no one mentioned the late rifle seasons. If you can hack cold and snow (these are also physically demanding) you may score on an elk at low elevations with out going to the far ends of the earth. Pretty sure Co, Wy, ID all have late season elk. Elk can be seen in foothills and cedar break country when snows push them down. Also, perhaps you can entice a younger or fellow to come along by paying part of their license $ and make arrangements for a pack-out if you score. Still may be less than 5,000 - 6,000!

Good luck!