Anybody Do Their First Elk Hunt as a Solo Backpack Trip?

[Birdhunter24]

Smartweed; I didn't see where you were from. If you are a flat-lander, then it would be helpful to get some experience at altitude before you actually go on a hunt. Being in shape it vital, but I have been on three different hunts where fit guys had altitude issues (one was a recent ex-pro baseball player, 33 yrs. old.), while a 60 year old fat man did just fine. If you have the opportunity, take a backpacking vacation, preferably combined with a scouting trip and see how you do. There's a difference between "sucking wind", and having severe headaches, muscle cramps, puking, etc. You will not be high enough to worry about HAPE and HACE, so start climbing.

I totally agree. If you are inclined toward supplements, I have used Wilderness Athlete's Altitude Advantage successfully and have had no issues at 10K. My buddy prefers to just bring some Advil and treating the headaches as they come along. The biggest thing to keep in mind about altitude is hydration/dehydration. You have to force yourself to drink water. By the time you are thirsty, you are already behind the curve. Bring extra bladders and a good filter. I use the Katadyn Hiker Pro and my buddy uses the lighter, but slower, Sawyer Mini. Water is KEY!

 

[njdoxie]

I did it in 2012 in area 76 in Colorado. I would not recommend it! I am in good shape, packed in about 4-5 miles at 9000' elevation. Where I live it is about 1600' elevation. Was not fun. Hunted hard all day and then coming back in the dark and you're sweaty, smelly, need to make something to eat. Start again at 5 AM. Killed an elk on day 3. Had to make 4 trips to pack out meat and gear. Took two days. I don't want to discourage you but it is a lot of HARD work.

Why didn't you either call in friends or arrange ahead of time for horse packers? There are a lot of outfitters working 76, no need to kill yourself getting the elk out, at least one of the outfitters would've probably helped u.

 

[dkw1959]

Could not find anyone interested in going into Wheeler Geological area. Thirty miles of the worst road you have ever seen. Did over $1500 damage to rental vehicle. Both front and rear bumpers . One guy that was hunting in there on horseback offered to do it for $500.