Sounds like you have the experience, but my concern would be with a limit of 500K and 5 year payback. Getting land leases is a big deal now even though, you seem to have backcountry experience.
All I wanted to do when I came West was "guide", having been a fishing guide of 7 years. Yep, you start out as camp boy, cook, packer, etc. That's what killed it for me... Granted this was years ago!
Seasons, obtaining permits, etc should also play a part.
Not an easy industry/profession to break into at 500K.
Sorry to sound negative. You asked for any and all advice...
REM7600