StudDuck - 3 to 4 miles of rough country is, well, rough. I don't question some of folks that have posted claiming big mileage, but I would venture a guess that the country isn't as challenging as some elk country. Another consideration is that dropping an elk 5 miles from the truck will result in at least 4 trips out (maybe 5 with gear). 4 round trips, at 5 miles each way, is 40 miles... half of which is loaded down with a heavy pack. Depending on weather, this can be stretched out over a couple days, but a lot of folks don't fully understand how much work is in front of them when they pull the trigger.

I'm not trying to paint a grim picture - it's a labor of love. Take your time and enjoy it - nothing better than elk hunting the high country!