I had a similar experience a couple years ago on a diy muzzleloader hunt for elk in CO. Spoke to a rancher that almost admitted as much, said his sports had all tagged out so it was time to bring the sheep home. Hiked in 5 or 6 miles into wilderness to find cattle and sheep and outfitters and very little game. We eventually found some ground to hunt and saw a few elk, I think it's worth talking to the USFS and inquiring about grazing leases before planning your hunt. Not complaining, but would have been nice to know going in. I would like to see the grazing end a week or so before the season, just to avoid the potential conflicts. I've been out for a 2nd rifle hunt, no problems at all then. It certainly didn't sour me on western hunting, hard to beat just being in the Rockies on a hunt, regardless of outcome.