Guys, I'm planning a trip to Colorado for my first elk hunt. I have the option of any week of the season, but want the best chance, of course. I can go Aug 30 - Sep 5th with very limited pressure where the elk haven't been hunted in 9 months, Sept 6 -12 with limited number of hunters, Sept 13-18 with 12 other hunters and opening muzzleloader, or the last week of september, full rut and after three weeks of hunters.

Here is what I'm thinking. I really like the second week, which is close enough to the rut with very limited pressure for the land we will have access to. I've never hunted elk, but always liked my pre-rut chances with whitetails, so I think lack of pressure and building hormones would increase my odds of pulling one in looking for an early cow.

Anyhow, just wanted to gather some thoughts and see if anyone has any other advice. Thanks.

Kelly