I have my muzzleloader season at the same time for deer, so I'll be splitting my efforts. Already in contact with a number of landowners who control access to a good portion of the area (clients of mine), and the elk don't show up until August.

I figure a few days east of the mountains hunting mule deer, then scout a few days before the hunt opens to verify that the patterns of the animals hasn't changed. Of course there will be regular scouting trips up there before that week. If I use my ML, I could shoot an elk and a deer the same day in the same unit October 1-4.

It is close enough that I can just drive up there after getting off work early the following week and hunt the last three or four hours of the day. It is only an hour drive.