How many 12,000ft ridges do you cross in a day there? The basins here are huge, we are talking a lot of miles. The elk only use part of it. If you gain and then give up that much altitude, then gain again you will understand. Binoculars allow me to work the parts that have elk. I am not into wasting my time, or my energy. Altitude will beat you up bad. It is hard on me and I love being up there.
Gselkhunter