I don't want to highjack SDFanatic's thread, but I thought since we were both looking for similar information, it might be best to post here.

I am also hoping to find some tips for CO 481. I have lived in Buena Vista for about 12 years now (Since I was 12) and have never hunted before. I just recently completed my hunters ed class. I want to hunt for a few reasons, mainly, I love being outside! Why not combing hunting and hiking since I already to the hiking. Also, I love challenges and elk meat. So here I am.

I turned in for a 2nd season cow tag. If the same trend holds as last year, I should have a 100% chance of getting it. To prepare, I have tried talking to people that hunt, but no one I know hunts here. They always travel to hunt. I have read the guide on the DOW web site, looked at the concentration maps on the DOW web site and spent a ton of time on Google Maps. With all that said, I still feel like I am kinda shooting blindly here.

I was going to do a bunch of scouting/hiking of places I have found on the map and attempt to have 2 or 3 high and low locations to hunt this coming fall so I am not surprised if we get an early snow.

Elway, I obviously don't want to steal any honeyholes, but if I shot you a PM with a few locations that I thought I might try, would you be willing to give me your thoughts?

Any other advice would be greatly appreciated!