Andy_o,
My advice to you would be,do it.If thats what you wanna do then do it.It is alot a work but it can be done.I have packed elk out on my back,it was not easy work.If you don't go prepared you can be in trouble.I have seen men,physicaly & mentaly break down on a elk hunt,I mean sit right down and cry,cause they did not know what they were getting them selves into.So to save you from this and anyone around you.
Here are some questions for you.
What time of year September or November.Weather is as deadly as any grizz or fall.
What to eat? How to keep it safe.
Water,were to get it,how to keep it safe to drink?
Shelter,if you are not planning for snow,count on it cause it will snow.
How do you plan to hunt?Nomadic or one camp and work from there.
What to do when you get your elk,a big bull can be just as big as a horse.
If you get one how do you plan to get it out,pack frame,freighter,horses.
You can do a do-it-yourself hunt from some of the best public hunting areas and you don't have to walk 10 miles in.Colorado,Montana,Wyoming have some great easy access hunting and you can do the camper as base camp and go out from there.Outfitters will usaly pack a elk out for you for around 200 to 300 bucks,if you have prior aragements.
These are a few ? for ya.With planning and proper equipment you can have a experiance of a lifetime.
BBJ