They have a good population of elk in that area. The WDFW has a few areas where they have AHE hunts, and where those hunts are you will find issues with elk damaging private property. You will need to ask for permission, but it would be worth it. Try for the AHE, better permits that last longer. You might also check out the Chehalis hunts if you get the AHE card.

The Quinault ridge area that overlooks the lake from the south is one area where you will find the elk. I suggest a trip around "the loop", and a side trip up the forest roads.

Last time I flew over that area we saw 6 different herds of 6 to 20 animals. I'm sure there were a lot more because we only flew in a straight line.

Andy