Without a doubt it is something I would sacrafice for. Personally I like the idea of doing it yourself. You'll have the advantage of having someone who has some knowledge of tha area but still the experience of the whole hunt, some scouting, packing in, general camp maintence and hopefully packing out an animal.

Without a doubt I would sacrafice some whitetail time, a new bow if the bow you have will get the job done and new camo. How may pairs do you currently own?

I dream of chasing elk at 10,000ft. You're right, your not getting any younger and if you dream of elk as I do then don't cheat yourself. Go for it!!!