Marinehawk, a couple of observations. It bears repeating that elk are where you find them, so keep moving until you do and don't be tied to one spot just because it looks good on a map. Most of the good spots I've found are not spots that I'd have picked off a map or air photo. As far as the pond in the photo being the only water for miles around, I'd be willing to bet that it's not. Seeps and springs are common in alpine areas and they can't all be found on maps or air photos but the animals will know where they are. I've found small creeks that were big eough to fish in that weren't on a map or visible on photos so don't assume that the elk will have to come to your spot to get water.
I drove through central CO yesterday and everywhere that I could see above timberline was white. In south park there was 3-4 inches on the ground and it's less than 10K. Maybe it'll melt off, maybe not. 11,600 is up there.
