re: Has anybody gone elk or moose hunting before?

I've been elk hunting 4 times in Colorado. Killed a nice 5x5 my 3rd year (after missing a nice 6x6 the previous year).

We did self guided public land hunts. Camped on the mountain in a nice outfitter tent my buddy has. Great time and beautiful scenery.

Colorado has the largest elk population in the country, and has 2 over-the-counter rifle seasons, so that's probably your best bet. Check out the state game and fish website. It has alot of info and all the stats for kills in all the game management areas.