Hi Salukipv: The best hunts I have had have been pack-in backcountry hunts in Colorado. They have also been the toughest. I was fortunate to draw a high country buck tag in CO this year and could not be happier. The season has been moved back one week (to Sept 12th) which adds tremendously to the chances of being snowed in. There is no way I would pack into a regular season elk or deer season to the high country, you are going to get snowed in. If you are focusing on light pack weight I would suggest you stop now, I go in with about 90 pounds. Light gear is going to get torn up in a hurry. I go by myself for a week and the tent weighs 23lbs, pack (5,000 cu in) 10lbs, sleeping bag ( -30 degree) 6.5 lbs, 10lbs rifle so I am at 50lbs without food, water, clothing or ancillary/emergency gear. Bill (glob30-06) chimes in from time to time here and you should talk to him as well. If you have questions, let me know.
Good luck.
Last edited by ColoradoElk; 07-27-2009 at 06:23 PM.