Western WA Early Archery Elk

[QUINNB]

This is my first year going after elk in Washington.  I grew up in New England chasing whitetails and was supposed to hunt the West side this year with a buddy.  He ended up getting a trophy tag in Wyoming and I will be on my own with another first timer. I am just looking for a little guidance for the west side. I was thinking of Mossyrock, Winston or Ryderwood units and am looking for any input. I realize these areas are hike/mountain bike in but have no problem putting on some miles for an a chance at an elk. Thank you for any input. 

[DARKTIMBER]

All are decent areas. Get maps and start scouting. Little late to learn an area.

[janttihunter]

That sounds like my first post last year! What part of New England are you from?

[QUINNB]

Thanks Darktimber and I realize its a little late to learn a new area. But I guess you have to start sometime. Janttihunter I grew up in Northern Vermont.

[janttihunter]

What weapon are you hunting with? I'd say all of those units are promising, find some public access, and some gates, then google map the area to get an idea of the topography and vegetation, then get in there and start looking for heavily used game trails.

[QUINNB]

I am shooting a PSE Stinger. Thanks for your input. I was supposed to hunt the ryderwood unit last year during the muzzleloader season but that didn't happen because of the fire danger.

[elk247]

What weapon are you hunting with? I'd say all of those units are promising, find some public access, and some gates, then google map the area to get an idea of the topography and vegetation, then get in there and start looking for heavily used game trails.

the real gem of info here is finding public access away from the road. The units you mentioned have good hunting, access is the issue. Find access before you waste your time looking at maps.