You don't need a horse to pack put an elk, get a good pack frame . Plenty of elk get packed on folks backs instead of a horse, they are just big deer.
Have the expectation to see more people than elk on your first hunt, if going OTC.
I've packed a bunch over the years, but the calendar catches up with the best of us. Sooner or later you'll have to find an easier way to get it done.
