There are lots of good brands, I own Mendle and Vasque. Personally I have two pair: one noninsulated and one insulated. But if I had to have only one pair, they would probably have 200-400 grm thinsulate, no more. You will wish for nonisulated boots more often than insulated in September. Good sock liners and good socks are a must. I like a boot that is 7-8 inches tall, no more.

And I would have to dissagree about boots being down on the list. I have had cold wet blistered feet, and they make you miserable. Having a comfortable, dry foot is near the top of my list for an elk hunt. Keep your tooties happy and you will cover a lot more ground, which is important for where you are going.

Here is a good deal on a boot that I own and like. Slightly over your price, but if they have your size, I would buy them! http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/product/standard-item.jsp?_DARGS=/cabelas/en/common/catalog/item-link.jsp_A&_DAV=MainCatcat20712-cat601927&id=0005469810124a&navCount=4&amp ;podId=0005469810124&parentId=cat601927&ma sterpathid=&navAction=push&catalogCode=8IS &rid=&parentType=index&indexId=cat6019 27&hasJS=true

And here is a good deal on Danners and there is a lot more selection. I have heard they are very comfortable, but won't stand up to years of abuse like brands like Medle will; http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/te...amp;hasJS=true