dog1, what part of the west are you going next year? I moved from CO last year to GA. I hunted ELK right before I moved. The number one thing you should do, if going to CO is getting in to shape. Depending what time of the year I would have heavy/light clothing. Great walking boots and surival gear. I hunted in Nov. of last year for 5 days and on one day it was 70 degrees the next 25 and snowing. Hope this helps.