Hunted that country in the late 80,s during the archery season. We had the best season ever for elk hunting. There was 3 of us and all three got bulls. Mine was the smallest. It was 3x2 and only about 27". My cousin's was the biggest and itwas 43" 5x5. My buddies was 4x5 and 38". The weather was cold but no snow. If I recall correctly we did have some rain. And yes it is great looking country. We had horses and mules to get the meat out. These bulls were not killed on the same day, but over a 2 week period. Good safe hunting.