I shoot a .300 Win Mag now but shot a 25-06 for years before that (I have a Remington and a Browning A-Bolt, both are great but I like the Browning better). I hunt Wyoming every year too and have made some great shots with the 25-06. It's accurate, shoots flat and you can shoot it all day long without pain. A bit small for elk I think but with proper shot placement it works. Your 7-08 is fine for all of your game but kicks a bit more, as you found out.

I like Leupold scopes (Well, I like Swavorski but the price is prohibitive) and find for hunting a Vari X III in 3.5x10 50mm covers all of the bases and will not rip your wallet out of your pants. Good luck and eat well!