BT
I direct answer to your question, it is my experience that the "big boys" may show up the first morning of the first day, beyond that don't count on much cooperation.
Lots of hunting pressure, okay, but I don't know how far you will be from the road, I'm assuming close enough that the "other guys" are going to be right in there with you. Personally, I never assume that I will be the first one "on the spot" (though I always try). Without knowing the exact specifics of your situation....
Locate the escape routes from the pressure.... usually towards higher ground, heavy timber (if they have such a thing in Arizona) or towards private property. Then set up the ambush on the escape route and let the other hunters do the work in driving them to you.... also,
Most hunters cannot endure a full seven days of full blown elk pursuit. More valuable IMHO is to arrive at least 2 days in advance and make sure that nothing, absolutely nothing, interfers with your being at THE place 60 to 90 minutes before sunrise on the opening day of the season.
I don't think we will have trouble getting an opportunity at a elk.
I do not know the reputation of this area, but I would put forth that if you assume that you will have one hell of a hard time getting a decent opportunity on an elk that it will serve you better than assuming it is going to be easy.
Just my thoughts based on sketchy information about a hunt in a different climate/topography than I am accustomed to.
EKM