OHbowhntrI've solo backpacked into Colorado wilderness several times, backpack hunted witha partner quite a few other times, archery and black powder and I've been very successful in every aspect.
Where to start?
First, round is going to only bring you pain and misery if truly you're not in shape. If you can't run a few miles, if you can'thike with your hunting boots and pack on for a few hours without ill affects of it (sore, tired, blisters etc) cancel your ideas and plan for 2010.
If you were jesting about that, read on.
You MUST have great fitting footwear and synthetic socks (not natural fibers like wool/cotton)As your feet go, so will your hunt.
You needa reliable tent and sleeping bag.I found myself in 2' of snow and it hammering down Sept 17th one year - another year rain after rain and it 40 degree's. Colorado weather can be brutal, even archery season. Be prepared with good equipment.
Your hunting clothes will differ very little from yourwhitetail hunting IMO. I take Frogg Toggs for rain gear.
Your food is important depending on your body. I can live on dehydrated soups and SPAM and candy bars. Some people need morefood, and differnt food. You'll have to figure that out.
Preparingfor a filled tag is important to, so your pack will need to carry weight well for you. I think Howler is crazy to quarter an elk - deboning is the only way solo elk hunters should do it, the gutless method. Also I'd never consider going elk hunting without my Wyoming bone saw.
I do agree that you have to have a good headlamp and water filter bottle, though I've drank out of a lot of streams and never an issue.
I hate GPS's, Ive seen a lot of glazed looks when the batteries die or they can't get a signal etc. or their GPS says go this way and there is a sheer 30' bluff or 100 acre deadfall pit right in that path and the GPS can't tell you that. Maps - learn the lay of the land, memorize.
If you can get a pack less than 55-60 pounds for a 5-6 day hunt you're doing well. 55-60 pounds is a LOT of weight, more than most people understand.
PM me if you want more info on how I do it.