Jason,

Sounds like a nice tradition might form up amongst your group that could carry forward in time. That would be cool or even if it is a "one time" affair, then the memories would be neat. There are barriers in the way of your hoped for elk hunting success; however, they can be overcome or balanced or reduced.

I cannot take you hunting nor will I tell you right where to go, but I am willing (along with others here) to start you down the path so you could position yourself so as to be able to "give it a reasonable go" so to speak.

1. Is this an elk only hunt? I assume so, since it sounds like you've had your fill of "mere deer" back home. It works better when you focus. Would you consider taking cow elk as being sufficient or is this a trophies or nothing hunt?

2. How many consecutive days of school can ALL of you miss next year to pursue an elk hunt? How many very road worthy 4x4's do you have access to? You don't want car troubles when trying to pull off an away from home/remote elk hunt.

3. What is your target $$/per man that you want to keep all this under?

Perhaps the ensuing discussion can help others as well,

EKM