Personally I wouldn't want to hunt with horses I've rented.I've heard too many stories of them getting flipped over and wedged upside down with their legs flailing above them, requiring you to try to correct the animal without getting kicked. Packing horses in the mountains is tough. You get thrown or your foot gets stepped on or whatever. I think if you need horses an outfitter is by far the way to go. I think if you have the luxury of a 2-3 week trip you can do it on your own, on foot.However, 2-3 weeks is what you will want tohave a really good shot atfilling your tag. If you can afford the time off I would recommend it. I'm trying to take off our 5 week rifle season, but wouldn't you know it my wife just had an emergency surgery scheduled for 5 days after the opener! Hope I tag out the first day!