Between the wife and I we have three rifles in the house for mountain hunting,
Ruger 7x57
Tikka T3 lite in .300 win mag
Mauser 8x57 ( backup gun Never really used)
All have a straight 6 x scope and all portable enuff for a ll day hikes.
I use the .300 only because it came in a good deal and is lite, she does not shot it because it is light and the recoil is a bit much for her.
The 7x57 was used successfully on an old bull with no drama and is a family heirloom of sorts.
As to the OP's comment about " those of you that still walk" I do not know of too many places where elk hunting does not require a decent hike. A few private ranches offer some big money hunts on hay fields ,but that is about it. Most elk are killed in mountains or foothills and a decent hike is in order.